Baker, Coakley Face Off In Gubernatorial Debate

Democrat Martha Coakley and Republican Charlie Baker sparred on jobs, schools and services for families and children during a televised gubernatorial debate.

Coakley says if elected she would focus on building a sustainable economy from the ground up while Baker says he would focus on strengthening local economies in struggling parts of the state.

Baker defended his leadership of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care saying his actions helped save thousands of jobs while Coakley defended her decision to fight a lawsuit aimed at the state Department of Children and Families saying those who brought the suit were seeking a one-size-fits-all solution.

The debate was sponsored by WGBH and The Boston Globe.

Three independent candidates — Evan Falchuk, Scott Lively and Jeff McCormick — were not included in the debate.

The election is Nov. 4.