The two candidates running to replace a disgraced Arizona congressman engaged in a heated back-and-forth in their first debate, on this weekend's taping of "Sunday Square Off."
Republican Debbie Lesko, a former state legislator, and Democrat Dr. Hiral Tipirneni, a political newcomer, are competing for the open seat in the heavily Republican Eighth Congressional District, on Phoenix's western outskirts.
It's the latest in a string of legislative elections this winter and spring that are viewed as a referendum on President Donald Trump. Trump won the district by 20 points in 2016.
Wide range of issues
The debate covered a wide range of issues from Trump's policies and behavior to health care, immigration and more.
The "Sunday Square Off" debate was livestreamed Friday morning.
The web version of the show includes a longer final segment that had to be trimmed for length in order to air Sunday morning.
Scandal triggered special election
A sex scandal in Washington triggered a four-month sprint to replace eight-term Republican Congressman Trent Franks.
Franks quit abruptly last December amid sexual harassment allegations.
Following Arizona law, Gov. Doug Ducey scheduled a special primary in February and a special election for April 24.
Key dates for voters
The deadline to register to vote in the special election is midnight Monday.
Early ballots go to voters on Wednesday.
The winner of the special election will have to stand for re-election in the August primary and November general election.
Republican Debbie Lesko explains whether she's comfortable with President Trump's policies and behavior. Democrat Hiral Tipirneni tells us where she fits on her party's ideological spectrum, and why she thinks she can win a deep red district.
Republican Debbie Lesko and Democrat Hiral Tipirneni sharply disagree on health care and the recent tax cuts for Americans.
Democrat Hiral Tipirneni has pledged not to accept campaign donations from corporate donors. Republican Debbie Lesko defends her donations from corporations including the Koch brothers.
Immigration. Gun safety. Abortion. And a campaign ad Debbie Lesko really doesn't like. The candidates engage in a free-for-all. This online version of the fourth and final "Sunday Square Off" segment contains the full segment recorded during Friday's livestream. It was trimmed for length in order to be broadcast Sunday, March 25 on 12 News.