"Governor, I don't know who does your research--maybe its Oliver Stone," Kerry said in response to Weld's attacks.

The senator severely rebuked Weld for using the death penalty as an issue in the race, calling Weld "shameless."

While Kerry characterized Weld as a cold-hearted politician who misrepresented the facts, Weld associated Kerry with the big government of Washington that prevents progress from being made.

"John Kerry's Washington has sabotaged us. Kerry's Washington has been part of the problem, not part of the solution," Weld said.

Throughout the hour-long debate, there were very few issues in which the candidates saw eye to eye,. Weld and Kerry agreed on whether to allowing them casino gambling in southeastern Mass. and Weld applauded Kerry's service in Vietnam.

After the debate, supporters on both sides declared disappointment at the behavior of the opposition.

"I was surprised at Weld's misrepresentation," Edward M. Kennedy '54-56 (D-Mass) told The Crimson.

The debate has been regarded by many as one that will set the agenda for each of the candidate's campaigns.

"The first debate is always important...it provides the opportunity for the candidates to size each other up and set the issues agenda for the rest of the race," said Leslie Goodman, a fellow at the Institute of Politics.

Both Sen. Kerry and Gov. Weld are highly popular officials who have drastically different approaches to creating a prosperous state.

This election has been regarded as symbolic of choices that other voters will have to make across the nation.

"It's a very important senate race for the country," Goodman said.

The debate was co-sponsored by the Boston Globe, the Boston Herald and four television stations and was broadcast live locally