Supporters React to Congressional Debate

Crowds from both sides of the political aisle gathered around the valley to closely watch the showdown between incumbent Congressman Raul Ruiz and his challenger Assemblyman Brian Nestande.

Throughout the debate there were cheers and clapping and moments of head shaking in disagreement.

“I think it went superbly well for Congressman Raul Ruiz,” said Democratic supporter Robert Moon, who watched the debate from the party’s headquarters in Cathedral City.

“I think Nestande, he was strong, he was clear.. I think he came out to be the more experienced,” said Republican supporter Cameron Quinn, who joined the viewing party at the headquarters in La Quinta.

Democrats and Republicans both praised the candidates on their arguments, supporters saying both contenders held their own.

“I must say Dr. Ruiz has improved his presentations since 2 years ago, so he’s had some experience, but I think Nestande was very very strong,” Quinn said.

“I found that Congressman Ruiz, partly of course probably because he is an emergency room doctor by training, remained calm and I don’t think that Mr. Nestande did,” said Ellie Kurpiewski, Office Manager of the Democratic Headquarters to the Desert.

From immigration, to job creation, and education, people watching the debate say they felt the candidates hit key notes in their arguments on the issues. Nestande’s followers say his experience as an Assemblyman is what helped him drive his message home.

“I mean he works in it, he knows what’s happening in this country, I mean he’s been in this for so many years,” said Republican Supporte Joy Miedecke.

While, those on Congressman Raul Ruiz’s side say he laid out the facts from his time in office.

“I think congressman Ruiz did better, because he was actually being positive and he was talking about what he’s done.,” said Moon.

And what about some of the verbal punches between the two?

“The truth is the truth and sometimes you have to make those jabs to get your point across,” said Miedecke.

“I felt like Nestande became more agitated as the evening went on.. what came through to me is that he does not like being challenged,” Kurpiewski said.

Verbal boxing match aside, supporters of each candidate say they were left feeling satisfied with the debate.

“I certainly am, Congressman Ruiz is calm, cool, collected and highly intelligent and ready to continue to serve our district,” Kurpiewski said.

“I just think that this has been the best thing for Brian, that people now understand where he’s coming from,” Miedecke said.