WAUSAU - You've seen their heated commercials on TV -- Tommy Thompson and Tammy Baldwin faced each other in person Thursday night.

The U.S. Senate were in Wausau for their second of three debates.

This one was held at UW-Marathon County.

The format was a little different. The moderators asked questions but also gave the candidates a chance to moderate themselves in six minute blocks.

That means the two were able to argue or debate back and forth with little to no intervention.

They discussed an array of topics.

And at times the pair got a little testy. But one of the most important issues they covered was health care.

They both were asked about the well known ads that say Tammy Baldwin is in favor of a full government takeover of health care.

And that Tommy Thompson is the best to do away with medicare and medicaid.

Baldwin says there is a role for the Federal Government, while Thompson says he reformed welfare and can do the same for Medicare.

"I got to see at a very early age the difference and social security, but particularly medicare made in our family's economic security," Baldwin said.

"It's one that I think, it's a program that I think isn't just a program, but it's a promise."

Thompson wants to make some changes.

"I want to be able to come up with a system that protects Medicare for all seniors," Thompson said.

"And all those over the age of 50 in the year 2020 are going to have the current Medicare. But those 50 and under in the year 2020 are going to have a choice."

They also discussed taxes and spending.

Thompson referenced cutting income taxes and property taxes as Governor.

Baldwin said she introduced the Buffett rule.

They also touched on foreign policy, bi-partisianship and education.

Representatives from both candidates spoke to the media afterwards and naturally each one declared victory for their candidate.

The two faceoff again next Friday in their third and final debate.

Story By: Matt Doyle