The stage was packed at last night’s forum featuring the top Democrats running for governor this year.

 

Nine candidates participated in last night’s debate at Lafollette High School.

The candidates at last night’s debate were about half of all the Democrats registered in the race, but included the major players — including head of the Department of public instruction Tony Evers and Madison Mayor Paul Soglin.

The candidates generally agreed on most points — including legalizing medical marijuana, school funding and improving access to healthcare.

Evers notes he’s the only candidate who’s been elected to a statewide role — leader of the DPI.

Most candidates said they’d legalize both medicinal and recreational marijuana — although some were more emphathic on the issue than other. Soglin says it won’t be a major issue in his campaign.

Other candidates expressed concern about environmental issues, including access to clean water.

The East Side Progressives organization hosted last night’s debate. The Democratic primary will be in August.