Forum between NJ candidates for congress held in Spanish

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. -- Both republican incumbent Frank Lobiondo and his challenger democrat Bill Hughes are competing to represent the 2nd Congressional District in New Jersey.

They faced a crowd of about 300 people at New Jerusalem Church in Atlantic City on Wednesday night. The majority of them were Latino.

"We don't want this to be a blame game, we need solutions to the problems," said Dr. Hector Rivera.

Dr. Rivera, who organized the event, made very clear that it was not a debate but rather and educational community forum.

For the first time ever, it was held completely in Spanish with interpreters on hand.

"So that the candidates understand that the Latino community is part of these United States and that language does not divide us," said Dr. Rivera.

In a county where the economic climate is gloomy after casino closing and massive layoffs, most questions were about jobs, immigration and education.

"An interest for me is the creation of new jobs or assistance to grow the Latino owned small businesses," said Pastor Franklin Rosales.

One response was to move away from gaming and reach out to the international community.

"We have an international airport with no international flights," said Bill Hughes.

On the immigration front, Nancy Soto, a teacher in the district, sparked a bit of controversy between the candidates

"I want you to respond to my question, 'where do you stand on the Dream Act?" asked Soto.

"I certainly would support a solution that takes care of that problem so that those students and children are awarded all the opportunities," said Frank Lobiondo.

Considering Lobiondo's vote against a House version of the 'Dream Act' back in 2010, Hughes went on attack mode.

"I'm glad that Congressman Lobiondo is now for immigration reform and that he changed his vote in 2005," said Hughes.

That spark was immediately put out.

"Our purpose is to educate the community and involve them in the political process so that candidates realize we are here and must be taken into consideration," said Delma Quinonez.