District 16 State Rep. candidates debate Borderland’s top issues

A Libertarian, Republican and Democrat attempt to distinguish themselves at the Coronado High debate. But the incumbent will be tough to beat.

Beto O’Rourke, a Democrat, is life-long El Pasoan, former councilman and has been working in Washington since 2012. His top priorities are border opportunities, a commitment to veterans, and being accessible and accountable.

“In the 21 months that I’ve been on the job, we have been pursuing El Paso’s priorities, whether that’s been strengthening the border, so that we can create more jobs, to connect the $90 billion dollars of trade that moves through El Paso and Juarez,” O’Rourke said. “Or doing better for veterans who have put their lives on the line and now need to be treated with dignity and respect.”

Although O’Rourke and his supporters consider his term a success, the challengers disagree, and think they can do a better job.

“The Congressman has not provided any alternatives, in terms of responding to the economic crisis. We are imploding as a nation with incredible debt,” said Jaime O. Perez, a Libertarian.

Perez is focuses on preserving civil liberties. His top priorities are spending and the deficit, the economy and taxes, and education and school choice.

Corey Roen, a Republican, an army vet, describes his top priorities as advocating for the military, job creation and border security.

“Number one, I’m a veteran, that puts me legs up against him,” Roen said. “I have a jobs plan where we can put El Pasoans back to work. And I think that’s the most critical thing, putting people back to work. And I differ with him on border issues as well. We both agree that the border is critically important for our region, but I think his border stance, lets just let everybody come and go as they please is not what El Pasoans need.”

The midterm election is November 4th.