John Hoeven in 2010 ND Senate Debates

On Corporations: Right approach: empower entrepreneurs & small business

"I have an approach that empowers people and entrepreneurs and small business," Hoeven said. "That's what we need to get our economy going."

On Energy & Oil: Managed the rapid growth in ND's oil country

"I find it ironic that at a time when we have a national recession, Tracy wants to go to Washington D.C. because he knows how to slow things down,'' Hoeven said.

On Health Care: Tort reform over Canadian-style, single-payer' plan

Hoeven didn't say if he would repeal the federal health care plan, but said it needed to be fixed with tort reform and the ability for people to pick their own doctor and insurance. He also said the issue showed a clear difference between the two men and criticized Potter for supporting--while deputy insurance commissioner in the late 1970s--a "Canadian-style, single-payer'' plan. "He truly believes the federal government should run your health care. I don't,'' said Hoeven.

On Jobs: $700B stimulus created only temporary jobs; invest in roads

Potter said not all the stimulus money was wisely spent, but something needed to be done. He said Hoeven also believes there were positive impacts because the governor has "cut ribbons'' for stimulus projects all across North Dakota.

"I go to state events when there's state investment,'' Hoeven responded.

On Health Care: Reform is a $500 billion tax increase and cut in Medicare

Democrat Potter doesn't support repealing the law. He says there are wonderful provisions and it will bring $650 million to the state health care industry.

Republican Hoeven calls the legislation a $500 billion tax increase and cut in Medicare. He wants reform to crack down on problem, but says people should pick their own providers and companies and more competition is needed across state lines