The El Paso candidates for U.S. Congress went head-to-head in their first debate on Monday.

The Westside Democrats sponsored the event at the Polly Harris Center.

Former city councilor Beto O'Rourke and educator Gerome Tilgham hope to take down longtime incumbent Silvestre Reyes.

While Reyes refused to criticize his opponents, there are some clear differences between the candidates.

"I have a reputation of not just knowing the issues but working hard for this community and I intend to continue to do that," said Reyes.

"They think that Congress right now is doing a terrible job, so I'm running to change that and try to get our unemployment rate down, our VA system improved, and some more accountability and leadership from our congress," said O'Rourke.

"We've got to focus on those bullets flying through the air those drugs passing through transportation arteries, and into the veins of an addicted America," said Tilgham.

More than 100 people attended the debate this morning.

The primary election is in March 2012.