Broaching topics as diverse as cost of living to AI to nuclear power, the candidates for the open seat both traded barbs on policy while frequently pivoting to their rivals' records — with a particular focus on campaign funders and ties to industries and other politicians.
Alvarado painted Dembo as a "liberal lawyer" and "environmental extremist" who would raise taxes, while Dembo accused his opponent of representing the interests of the ultra-wealthy and shifting positions on issues during the debate.
"I'm pretty shocked by some of the things I'm hearing, although maybe I shouldn't given his record," Dembo said, referring to his opponent's answers. "He has never once been out against the Iran war. The only statement he ever put out against it was on February 28th saying he fully applauded it.
He has never once been against tariffs. He's doing that for the first time tonight, but I guess it shouldn't be surprising given that he touted his endorsement of President Trump and then carefully scrubbed all mention of Trump from his website."
Meanwhile, Alvarado took aim repeatedly at Dembo regarding his position on H.R. 1, known as the One Big, Beautiful Bill, saying his opponent was cherry-picking parts he favored and attacking others rather than weighing in on how he would actually vote.
"Unfortunately, I think my opponent doesn't understand how government works. It's nice to say I like portions of a bill. You can't pick out sections of a bill... you're there for it or you're against it. He said he was against it. Tons of tax benefits for people throughout this entire state, $2,300 plus per family benefited people with Social Security, taxes on tips, lots of things that helped people out every day. He said he was against that and he said it repeatedly and he's acknowledged that," the former state senator said.
Asked where they would break with their own parties, Dembo pointed to former President Joe Biden's border policies as misguided and Alvarado said the war in Iran had "run its course." Dembo described himself a "centrist" ready to stand up for the "70 to 80 percent" who feel let down by both Republicans and Democrats. Alvarado said he had a "track record of being independent" and "doing what's right for my district."
The candidates split strongly over health care, with Dembo favoring a public option for health insurance and the reinstatement of Affordable Care Act subsidies. Alvarado, a physician, characterized the ACA as part of a system that "nobody likes" and positioned himself as someone well-suited to help mend healthcare at the federal level.
The candidates did appear to find some common ground on AI, advocating for federal guardrails, and on hemp, with both lamenting the passage of strict THC limits that have left the industry in limbo.
The race to claim the Sixth District congressional seat is being called the state's most competitive, with recent polls and race trackers signaling shifts in Dembo's direction — raising Democrats' hopes of picking up a House seat. But leading indicators continue to show an edge for Alvarado.
Early in-person voting in the midterm elections begins Thursday, October 29.