August 17, 2010
Cape Cod Times
The Bay State's gubernatorial candidates duked it out yesterday over Cape Wind and its effect on climate change, the state's economy and energy policy.
But Democratic incumbent Deval Patrick, Republican Charles Baker, independent Timothy Cahill and Green-Rainbow Party candidate Jill Stein sparred over more than just the proposed Nantucket Sound wind farm during a standing-room-only afternoon debate at Suffolk University's C. Walsh Theatre.
The candidates answered questions on natural gas production, re-licensing the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station in Plymouth and energy efficiency. The audience also learned their philosophies on government intervention in economic markets.
Baker and Cahill pushed Patrick on the cost of Cape Wind, arguing that the project has been given preferential treatment and that it will hurt businesses and consumers.
Patrick is the only one of the four who supports Cape Wind. Stein's concerns are based on transparency and process issues; she expressed no concern with the environmental impact or project location.
The debate was sponsored by MassINC and CommonWealth magazine.