John Brunner in 2012 Missouri Senate Debates

On Abortion: Pledges support to overthrow of Roe v. Wade

Brunner and Steelman both said they would want to look at the wording of a proposed amendment before endorsing it while still trying to portray a strong anti-abortion stance, with Steelman saying she does believe life begins at conception and Brunner pledging support to the overthrow of Roe v. Wade.

On Corporations: Served as CEO of personal care products manufacturer

Akin, a six-term congressman, took exception. "If I were a career politician, I'd stay in a safe congressional district, wouldn't I? I don't think the Senate is the place for on-the-job training," he said.

Steelman responded that Brunner has surrounded himself with high-priced political consultants who are likely telling him that the winning message is painting his opponents as career politicians.

Brunner, who has poured more than $2 million of his own money into his campaign, called Akin's remarks about on-the-job training "political talk." His opponents' recent job experience "is a little different than being on the production line," he said.

On Immigration: Citizenship for veterans; but not for college grads

Brunner said he would support allowing citizenship for immigrants who serve in the US military because of their service. But for immigrants who only get a college degree "they need to go follow the laws and get to the back of the line."