Florida Gov. Rick Scott and Democratic challenger Charlie Crist took opposing sides on the same-sex marriage question during their latest debate.
Scott told the statewide television audience Wednesday that he supports traditional marriage but ultimately it is a question the courts will decide.
Crist said he supports same-sex marriage but agreed the courts will decide.
During rebuttal, Scott pointed out that when Crist served as the governor from 2007-11 as a Republican he opposed same-sex marriage. He noted that Crist later told reporters his opposition to same-sex marriage was for political expedience because he was then a Republican.
Floridians passed a state constitutional amendment in 2006 banning gay marriage.
Scott delayed the start of a debate because of an electric fan below Crist's podium.
Crist was alone on the stage for about five minutes Wednesday night at Broward College because Scott said Crist's fan violated a rule against the use of electronic devices.
Crist always uses an electronic fan at public appearances to avoid sweating. He called Scott's position ridiculous. The Republican governor eventually strode on stage.
The debate is the second between the two candidates.
