FROM INDIANA PUBLIC BROADCASTING

The lone debate in Indiana’s attorney general race sparked heated exchanges between Republican Attorney General Todd Rokita and Democratic challenger Destiny Wells. Held Sunday morning and hosted by Indianapolis TV stations Fox 59 and CBS 4, the debate covered key issues including immigration, social media, and abortion.

Throughout the debate, Rokita frequently interrupted and sought to link Wells to national Democratic policies, many of which he has opposed during his tenure as attorney general.

The debate also addressed the Indiana Supreme Court reprimand Rokita received last year for professional misconduct. Defending his actions, Rokita said, “I agreed with the Supreme Court to settle the matter, so we can stop it from being a distraction. That’s what that was about.”

Wells countered by criticizing Rokita’s ethics, saying, “Taxpayers are having to pay over $100,000 just to defend him in front of the disciplinary commission.”

Despite the contentious tone, both candidates found a moment of civility at the end of the debate. Rokita called Wells a “fighter,” while Wells acknowledged Rokita’s persistence, saying he “stays in it for the long haul.”