CMU’s College Republicans and College Democrats clubs squared off against each other in a rapid-fire policy debate Wednesday night. The event was moderated by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Heldmyer, who said she was impressed by the level of discourse during the debate.

“I honestly think that both sides represented their positions and parties exceptionally well,” Heldmyer said. “I’m very proud that we have such educated young people participating.”

The debate covered topics such as education, energy, gender, health care and Colorado’s approaching vote to ratify Amendment 64, which would legalize marijuana.

Both clubs used discussion of the issues as a chance to advocate for their party’s presidential candidate.

“Obama is one of us,” Democrat debater David Martinez said. “I cannot emphasize enough how much Obama represents the middle class.”

The Republicans were quick to fire back.

“The overlying [sic] problem with my liberal friends here is that they cannot see a fat man next to a thin one without coming to the conclusion that the fat man has taken advantage of the thin one,” Republican representative Jeff Burghorn said.

Representatives from both clubs emphatically claimed victory for themselves during interviews after the debate. Martinez was pleased with the event’s turnout.

“There was great head count that arrived, as well as media and some local government officials,” Martinez said. “I hope that people came with an open mind.”