Republicans candidates, poised to challenge Democratic incumbent Congressman Walt Minnick in Idaho's 1st District, gathered at the Karcher Mall in Nampa Thursday night to discuss issues with citizens of Canyon County.  Vaughn Ward, state Rep. Raul Labrador, R-Eagle, and Harley Brown each tried to convince potential voters why he should be the pick to face Minnick in November. The event was sponsored by the Canyon County Republican Women.

Following the debate, each candidate shared his thoughts on the discussion and explained why he is running for the U.S. Congress. The trio of men also described how the federal government can reduce spending by cutting certain program. For a summary of the debate, see IdahoReporter.com's wrap up here.

Vaughn Ward

Raul Labrador

Harley Brown

Republican voters go to the polls May 25 to choose the man they want to face Minnick.  The three candidates, with eight others, will face off again Saturday as Tea Party Boise Inc. hosts its first-ever forum for those running for Congress.  That event will be held at Eagle High School and will begin at 6 p.m.