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Van Pelt-Watkins Wants Apology From Braun

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Mayoral candidate Patricia Van Pelt-Watkins says she wants to hear an "I'm sorry" from Carol Moseley Braun, but she's not betting on it.

Van Pelt-Watkins is angry with Braun for a fiery confrontation at a debate over the weekend.

"I would like an apology. I'm due an apology," she said. "But I don't expect one to come."

At the debate at the Trinity United Church of Christ, 400 W. 95th St., Watkins questioned where Braun had been for 20 years, the latter candidate fired back by saying Watkins had been using crack-cocaine.

"Patricia, the reason you didn't know where I was for the last 20 years is because you were strung out on crack. Now, you have admitted to that," Braun said, staring at Watkins. "You also were in a cult. You have admitted to that."

Van Pelt-Watkins, a community activist, has admitted past drug use. But she says she hasn't touched a drug, an alcoholic drink or a cigarette in 32 years.

Candidates Gery Chico, Miguel Del Valle, and William "Dock" Walls were also at the debate. Frontrunner Rahm Emanuel was not present, but he reacted to the outburst Monday morning.

"My reaction is, what more important is what does it mean to the city of Chicago?" Emanuel said. "Are we answering the problems that they think are important to the city's future?"

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