Representative Fitz Steele sparred with challenger Chris Fugate as both men made their cases to voters in Kentucky’s 84th House District. Fugate is a Baptist preacher and former Kentucky State Police trooper trying to deny Steele a third term in the House.

“We need a voice that will stand for us. We need a voice that will stand for us and shout it for us. I run my mouth four times a week at Gospel Light Baptist Church, and I will be a voice in Frankfort,” said Fugate.

“I’m the candidate in the race to go back to Frankfort, to take up and fight for the coal industry, fight for healthcare, fight for education, fight for you,” said Steele.

The candidates in the race for 87th district representative shared their views on a number of topics, from Common Core to marijuana.

“I don’t think the Federal Government should tell us what to do with our education system. I know my kids; I know what their needs are; and I trust the principal at the school that my child goes to,” said 87th District Representative candidate Chad Shannon.

“I think on the medical marijuana, there is some evidence that it is beneficial, particularly in cancer and Alzheimer’s patients, but I still think we need to have a little bit more research,” said 87th District Representative candidate Rick Nelson.

Nelson hopes his experience carries him to a fourth term in Frankfort, while Shannon, a business owner and former U.S. Marine, vies to unseat him.

More than 100 people watched the debate, hosted by the Harlan County Republican Organization.

The 84th House District includes Perry County and part of Harlan County. The 87th House District spans a portion of Harlan County and all of Bell County.