Finegold and Adams Square Off in Wednesday Debate

Current State Senator Barry Finegold and challenging State Representative Paul Adams squared off during a Wednesday debate, with budgets and jobs being a common discussion on the evening.

Inside Tewksbury Memorial High School’s auditorium, Adams consistently told voters that spending on Beacon Hill is out of control, adding that he and other Republicans are needed to stop that trend.

Finegold, meanwhile, defended his record throughout the event, and regularly spoke about the impact he’s had in the community as well as his availability to area voters.

“The folks at Beacon Hill and the ‘go along to get along’ crowd want more of your money, and are looking for every opportunity to raise your taxes and feed their spending habits,” said Adams, when asked about a potential tax of online sales companies.

On that topic, Finegold said there is a thought that with an online sales tax, companies like Amazon may be likely to leave the state. Finegold added that he wishes there were more clarity from the federal government on the issue.

Candidates weighed in on two key ballot questions. Both Finegold and Adams sided against approving medical marijuana, saying more harm than good would likely come out of it.

When it came to so called assisted suicide, Adams said he is “morally opposed” and “vehemently against it” while Finegold said he goes back and forth on the issue, but is currently undecided.

Finegold mentioned several times about listening forums he has in his communities, something he believes shows his willingness to communicate with the towns he represents.

“I think too many times people tell you what they think and don’t take enough time listening to what you think,” said Finegold. “That’s why I think I’ve been an effective State Senator. You can’t make everyone happy. It’s hard to do. But one of the policies I’ve had, I don’t care if you agree with me or disagree with me, but I want to hear what’s on your mind.”

During his closing statement, Finegold said that while he is an effective listener, he’s also been responsive and been able to get the job done while in office.

Adams again touched on what he called out of control spending on Beacon Hill, and in his closing statement said it’s time for a change.

“I’m running to take our state in a new direction,” said Adams.