Lamont criticizes Lieberman in debate

[Ron Burgundy]

AP - Lamont criticizes Lieberman in debate

By ANDREW MIGA, Associated Press WriterMon Oct 16, 2:42 PM ET

Democrat Ned Lamont criticized rival Sen. Joe Lieberman's support for the invasion of Iraq on Monday in a debate in which the incumbent also faced jabs from the long-shot Republican candidate.

"I'm running against a career politician who says, 'Stay the course,'" said Lamont, echoing the anti-war mantra that propelled him to victory in the August primary. "It's time for us now to redeploy our forces."

Trailing in the polls, Lamont hit back at Lieberman's charge that he's a running a negative campaign.

"It's not negative to say we've got to change course in Iraq," Lamont said.

The three-term senator, who is running as an independent, complained that Lamont is more interested in spreading blame than forging solutions to pressing problems.

"His finger-pointing ... is the last thing Washington needs more of," Lieberman said.

The televised hourlong encounter also included Republican Alan Schlesinger, who saved his sharpest attacks for Lieberman.

"Don't listen to Joe's rhetoric, look at his voting record," said Schlesinger, who cast himself as the conservative pitted against two liberals.

Lieberman launched an independent bid after losing the Aug. 8 primary in hopes of hanging onto his seat. He has won support from some top Republicans. The White House has declined to support Schlesinger.

Lamont, 52, a wealthy cable TV executive who has tapped more than $8 million of his personal fortune to fund his campaign, cast himself as an outsider who would take on Washington's powerful special interests.

"You need new people in Washington, a fresh perspective," he said. "Right now, we have a situation in Washington that's out of control."

Lieberman, 64, has stressed his ability to work across party lines to deliver for Connecticut. He criticized Lamont as inexperienced.

[motivez]

"Don't listen to Joe's rhetoric, look at his voting record," said Schlesinger, who cast himself as the conservative pitted against two liberals.

This guy had a very good showing IMO.

He's not going to win, but good showing is good for Lamont.