The debate moved into its middle phase.
The initial fiery atmosphere had cooled somewhat as the topics shifted to more concrete areas—ones that truly tested the candidates' practical abilities: administrative experience and future urban planning.
This was Leo's weak spot.
He was, after all, too young. Aside from the fledgling "Renaissance One" project, he had no experience managing large public institutions.
And this was precisely where Carter Wright excelled.
The moderator posed a pointed question about balancing the municipal budget deficit with public services.
Following the strategy Ethan had prepared, Leo attacked City Hall for being bloated, inefficient, and wasting taxpayers' money.
It should have been a scoring blow.
But Carter Wright's response caught everyone by surprise.
He sighed, a candid expression appearing on his face.
