Representatives Golden and Theriault meet in the first debate in the race for Maine's 2nd Congressional District

LEWISTON (WGME) – The two congressional candidates from Maine's Second District will take the debate stage Thursday night.

Maine's Second District race is one of the most hotly contested races this cycle. It is expected to be close and could ultimately change the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The incumbent, Democrat Jared Golden, has held the seat for six years.

He sells himself as a bipartisan lawmaker who has often voted against his own party in Congress.

That gave him success in a more conservative congressional district.

His opponent, Republican state representative and former NASCAR driver Austin Theriault, argues that Golden is not a good fit for the district, citing their differences over issues such as an assault weapons ban.

“Our message will be that we need more balance and less extremism in Washington,” Theriault said. “For too many years politicians have put themselves above the people and I think we need more leaders so we will put the people above politics.”

CBS13 wanted to speak with Golden Thursday, but a spokesperson said he was busy preparing for Thursday night's debate.

His campaign team issued a statement before the debate.

“Congressman Golden looks forward to the debate and discussing the work he has done for Mainers over the past six years in office.”

You can watch Theriault and Golden face off on CBS13 at 7 p.m