Candidates for governor face off

BOSTON (FOX 25 / MyFoxBoston.com) - The four candidates for Massachusetts governor sparred on everything from jobs and health care to the best ways to close the state's multibillion budget gap in their first televised debate last night.

Democratic incumbent Gov. Deval Patrick defended his first term in office from stiff criticism from his three challengers ’ Republican Charles Baker, independent Timothy Cahill and Green-Rainbow candidate Jill Stein.

Baker said during their first televised debate on WBZ-TV that Patrick hasn't done enough to reign in spending and reform and shrink government. He also faulted him for supporting eight tax increases, including a sales tax hike.

Patrick pointed to overhauls of the state pension, ethics and transportation systems and said he's cut the state workforce.

Cahill said he would push for tax cuts and budget cuts, including reductions to the state's health care system.