Markey, Garcia Square Off On WBSM

While both Democratic candidates for the Representative seat in the 9th Bristol District want to see Southcoast Rail, they have different opinions on funding sources.

Incumbent State Rep. Chris Markey and challenger Alan Garcia debated on WBSM Thursday.

Garcia says cutting out wasteful spending could contribute considerable funding to building the rail.

State lawmakers raised the gas tax and tied it to inflation last year to fund Southcoast Rail. Markey defended the action as a bold, but necessary move in order to convince Governor Deval Patrick the project was worth while.

The Democratic primary will be decided on Tuesday, September 9. The winner will then face Republican candidate Patrick Curran in November.