Incumbent Missouri Senator Claire McCaskill and Republican challenger Todd Akin squared off in their final debate of the campaign Thursday night. Those hoping for a slugfest were probably disappointed.
In front of hundreds of potential voters at Clayton High School, the two candidates didn't cover much new ground. In fact, they mostly stuck to the talking points they've used on the campaign trail.
McCaskill portrayed herself as a moderate.
"I'm not worried about upsetting my party. I've had time-out in my caucus, especially when I'm going after earmarks,” said McCaskill.
And Akin dismissed McCaskill's claim that she's a moderate.
"She talks about how she's a moderate. How much do you have to spend in deficit spending to become a liberal?" asked Akin.
The two candidates had disagreements on almost all the issues - and education was no exception. Here's what McCaskill had to say about Akin's opposition to federally backed student loans.
"I don't know many private banks that loan money to a 17 year old that has no money,” said McCaskill.
But Akin defended his views.
"Claire seems to think we have to have the fed government do everything. A year or two ago we had student loans from private institutions,” said Akin.
New financial reports show McCaskill has outraised Akin by nearly $4 million since mid-July.
As per debate rules, McCaskill spoke to reporters after the event.
But Akin did not show up, choosing instead to send an advisor in his place.
