Sherrod Brown, Josh Mandel: Ohio US Senate candidates highlight contrasts

CINCINNATI - The Democratic incumbent for U.S. Senate and his GOP challenger have focused on their differences on issues from abortion to the auto industry bailout in the last debate of Ohio's heated race.

Sen. Sherrod Brown describes himself as a fighter for the middle class and steadfast supporter of women's choice on abortion. Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel says he would help economic growth with lower taxes and seek "common ground" on the divisive issue of abortion. He says he opposes abortion except to save a woman's life.

Their exchanges Thursday night weren't as vitriolic as their second debate last week, although peppered with sarcasm. Mandel gave a somewhat conciliatory closing, praising Brown's wife and his own. Brown thanked him in their debate televised around the state on NBC affiliates.