KALAMAZOO (WKZO) -- It was the first debate between Congressman Fred Upton and challenger Jack Hoogendyk before the August primary election. 

Right out of the gate Hoogendyk stressed his credentials as a staunchly conservative Republican who is for less government, and poked at Upton’s conservative credentials, saying he only gets a 50% rating from many organizations on the right.

Upton fired back talking about being:"conservative enough" and is backed by the Kalamazoo Chamber of Commerce, Farm Bureau, Right to Life and the NRA all the while able to work with the Democrats to "get things done".

Both candidates talked Healthcare Reform, jobs, and energy issues facing Michigan as well as the nation. Upton offered proposals for ways Congress could address issues while Hoogendyk rebutted saying Congress has no business in setting more regulations to "solve" these matters and that it should be left to local governments and the people to figure out. 

In his closing comment, Hoogendyk challenged Upton to hold more debates, five more in fact between now and August. 

Hoogendyk and Upton are scheduled to debate again on WKZO AM 590 and FM 96.5 on July 3rd. Stay tuned for more updates.