Working to separate themselves on image, Sen. Jennie M. Forehand and challenger Cheryl C. Kagan more definitively branded their legislative styles at a forum Thursday.

During a debate at the Rockville Crowne Plaza Hotel sponsored by the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce in Rockville, the two Democratic candidates for state senator in District 17 addressed taxes, transportation, jobs and education. In a previous debate, Kagan and Forehand admitted little distinction exists between them on the issues.

Kagan, who was elected in 1994 to the Maryland House of Delegates, where she served two terms, says she is a superior communicator. She highlighted her diligence in knocking on doors, her proficiency in Spanish and French, and her accessibility through a website, blog and Twitter account.

"It's about asking the tough questions before spending taxpayers' money," Kagan said. "That and having an open dialogue with constituents is what would have helped us avoid this mess."

Forehand, who served in the House from 1978 to 1994, when she was elected to the Senate, touts her voting record, life and professional experience, Annapolis State House connections and "grandmotherly" wisdom.

"I'm not a professional public speaker, I'm not a professional fund raiser ... I'm a public servant," Forehand said. "Having great collaborations and trust with other legislators is going to be a big plus for me."

Both candidates expressed their distaste for county funding of teacher pensions and support for completion of the Intercounty Connector. The two also agreed the alcohol tax should be raised.

"I don't think a couple pennies on a can of beer is going to hurt anyone," Forehand said in answering a question.

Kagan said that is not enough.

"I think that is a simplistic and partial first step and I don't think it's going to make up for (a) $2 million (budget gap)," Kagan said. "I think we need to look at raising the tobacco taxes again and the gas tax is on the table."

The debate was bookended by the two outlining their priorities for office.

Kagan said she would treat the state's budget as if it were her own.

"We have to be focused like a laser on our budget issues," Kagan said. "Before we raise taxes my focus would be cutting ferociously first."

Forehand wants to push hard on her legislative priorities.

"We need to finish the ICC," Forehand said. "I also have a domestic violence bill and I want to work on identity theft because that's rampant."

Forehand continued: "I also want to strengthen the laws on human trafficking. I want (the laws) to be equal to (those for) drug dealers so you can do car seizures and moneys seizures."

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