HAZARD, Ky. (WYMT) – The two men vying to represent Kentucky’s 84th House District for the next four years squared off at a forum Monday night in Hazard.

Rep. Fitz Steele, a Democrat, is trying to hold off Republican challenger Chris Fugate.

Steele and Fugate discussed their views during the town hall forum, sponsored by the group InVision Hazard.

Steele, who is seeking a fifth term in the office, touted his experience in Frankfort.

“I know what it takes to supply our district, our region with what we need,” Steele said. “From roads, to infrastructure, to healthcare, to education.”

Fugate, meanwhile, played to his background in law enforcement and the faith community. Fugate is a retired Kentucky State Police trooper and pastor.

“Some people believe that God does not belong in government, and I say that’s wrong,” Fugate said. “Because according to the Bible, God established government.”

The candidates never attacked each other Monday. They even shared stances like starting the school day with prayer and maximizing the amount of coal severance dollars returned to the mountains.

“I believe that the coal-producing counties…we ought to get our fair share and maybe more of our fair share,” Fugate said. “Because the coal-producing counties are the very counties that are suffering the most.”

Steele said, “We built this state on the backs of these coal miners that can’t get up and down, that are dead, the ones that can barely get around right now. You’re daggone right I want it all.”

Both Steele and Fugate also said they want to create more career opportunities to keep young people in Eastern Kentucky.

The 84th District includes Perry County and part of Harlan County.

Election Day is Nov. 8.