After Debate, Reporters Take Another Crack At Gubernatorial Hopefuls

(CBS) – It was a spirited debate for the candidates for governor. Once it wrapped up, Democrat Pat Quinn and Republican Bruce Rauner had a chance to assess their own performance.

Reporters asked Rauner and Quinn questions they didn't answer when they faced one another.

CBS 2's Jim Williams was there.

Both Rauner and Quinn, without bragging about their individual performances, praised the overall debate.

"It was a good spirited debate," Rauner said.

"I thought it was a very robust discussion of the issues," Quinn said.

Rauner was asked why, in the debate, he didn't answer whether he would support a ban on assault weapons.

"What really matters is we keep the guns out of the hands of criminals and the mentally ill. We have to stop the straw purchases that are going on. That's the really answer," he said.

"I was disappointed in that," Quinn said. "I think it's important if you're going to be the governor of Illinois that you take a position against assault weapons."

Quinn faced on a post-debate question asking why he didn't choose a black running mate and instead picked Paul Vallas.

"I've known Paul Vallas for 30 years. He's an expert at budgeting," Quinn said.

Each made yet another push for black votes before they left the DuSable Museum of African American History.

"African American families are suffering terribly under Pat Quinn," Rauner said.

"We've helped a lot of folks, more recently making sure we have decent health care, that we properly invest in schools. I think those are the issues that count," Quinn said.

The fiery finish was a stark contrast to their rather cautious performance last week in Peoria. Many observers said Rauner appeared more comfortable Tuesday night.

Quinn, as he was last week during a debate in Peoria, was again on the attack.