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Updated 09/07/2011 10:11 AM

Rowdy Debate Shows Intensity In Special Congressional Race

By: Grace Rauh

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Democrat David Weprin and Republican Bob Turner capped off an intense day of congressional campaigning Tuesday with a rowdy debate in Howard Beach, Queens. NY1's Grace Rauh filed the following report.

As Election Day draws closer, the race for Anthony Weiner's old congressional seat is growing more intense by the day.

Not just the candidates are butting heads, but fans of Democrat David Weprin and Republican Bob Turner are getting rowdy as well.

At a packed Tuesday debate in Howard Beach, voters did not hold back and their chanting even led to the ouster of a disruptive protester.

The moderators stumped Turner with a question about tax loopholes. He was asked to name one he's in favor of closing, and he replied, "I really don't know."

The debate capped off a busy day of campaigning.

Turner stumped with former Governor George Pataki. The GOP candidate and his supporters are trying to frame the campaign as a referendum on President Barack Obama.

"I have a very simple message: If you like what's happening in Washington, send a career politician to rubber stamp more of the same," said Pataki.

Weprin, who stumped with Senator Charles Schumer, is trying to make the election about preserving Social Security and Medicare.

"Mr. Turner, the opponent, has not been a full-fledged defender of Social Security and Medicare. He is supported by people who believe it should be cut, privatized or even eliminated," said Senator Charles Schumer.

Turner wants to cut the federal budget by 35 percent, while Weprin says the country cannot cut its way out of its budget problems.

The special election is on September 13.

The candidates will square off in a debate on NY1, which will air at 6 and 10 p.m. Thursday.