Saturday afternoon in New Britain, Connecticut, Republican incumbent Nancy Johnson and Democratic challenger Chris Murphy squared off in the first of three scheduled debates for Connecticut's 5th congressional district.  There couldn't have been a starker contrast between the candidates in this crucial race.  In a way, their differing message and demeanor represented the fundamental distinction between the Democratic and Republican parties.  Murphy, poised and knowledgeable, articulated a clear vision for the future of America. Conversely, Johnson--appearing scattered and ornery--rambled non sequiturs intended to obfuscate her conservative voting record.

    Despite her lack of substance and unwillingness to answer the specific questions posed, there were some Johnson highlights worth recounting.  Asked about the priority level of education, Johnson claimed the Republican Congress has fully funded No Child Left Behind--a factually inaccurate statement.  Johnson proceeded to contradict herself by saying we need to give more money to No Child Left Behind, since Congress has only funded the testing portion of the legislation.  Additionally, even though prescription drug costs are skyrocketing, Johnson voiced her opposition to allowing the government to negotiate prices with drug companies because "competition drives prices down."

    Whereas Johnson's performance was somewhat laughable (audience members laughed at a few of Johnson's false assertions), Murphy was impassioned and inspiring.  Murphy highlighted the need to enhance and expand our education system in order to remain competitive in the global economy.  He also addressed healthcare and energy costs. Countering Johnson's veneration of the free market's benevolence, Murphy stated that Congress needs to support the American people by standing up to oil companies and insurance providers.  And despite Johnson's fear mongering on the issues of terrorism and wiretapping, Murphy didn't abandon his principles.  He cogently expressed the need to simultaneously protect America and preserve constitutionally prescribed civil liberties.

    Connecticut's 5th congressional district has repeatedly been indentified as a "must win" for Democrats to reclaim the House. And the race is close.  Internal polling has shown the race to be a dead heat, and just this week, both the Washington Post and Cook Political Report listed the CT-05 as a "toss up."  Murphy's performance in the first debate will only elevate his stock among Connecticut's voters.  This race seems to be turning blue!  If elected to Congress, Chris Murphy will be a strong Democrat who champions progressive causes for years to come.