Back and forth

The candidates have begun to test each other's nerves now, and Strickland did begin to fumble over his words.

This after Blackwell accused Strickland of using "smoke and mirrors" with his plans and promises.

Strickland countered that the state needs institutional leadership to solve its massive educational problems at the public school and higher education levels.

Strickland said it's untrue that he has called for spending caps, for instance. "I have never said that I'm for caps."