DURANT, OK--Students from Southeastern collected questions from the audience and each of the candidates talked about their positions and changes they'd like to make.

One of the first topics during the debate, education.

"One of the things I would like to see expand around the state of Oklahoma, that would help control the costs, would be off-site, on-line learning centers," State Senator, Randy Brogdon, said.

"One of the areas that I am very serious about devoting attention to, is the area of the high cost of textbooks, that ranges from a burden to a scandal in the state of Oklahoma." Attorney General Drew Edmondson, said.

"Students, adults, who for whatever reason, were unable to complete a two year degree, let's give them an opportunity and encouragement to come back and complete that associates degree," Lt. Governor, Jari Askins, said.

Askins has served as Lieutenant Governor since 2006 but says she's ready to take on a position where she can make more decisions.

"One of the first things I would do by executive order, would be to create what we call a children's cabinet. It would be an opportunity to bring together policymakers, agency heads, and create one united focus towards helping improve the lives of Oklahoma's children," she said.

Attorney General Drew Edmondson has held his position since 1994 and says he's also ready to play a different role in state government.

"So many times when I've been attorney general I've said that's a matter of policy, we don't make policies in the AG's office. We just enforce the law. I'd like the opportunity to make some policy and make some changes and help grow this state," Edmondson, said.

Ardmore native, Randy Brogdon, a former mayor, council member and long-time business owner, says he has unique life experiences to bring to the governor’s seat.

"Normally when we elect a governor, historically it's either a career politician, or an attorney, and I'm neither. I am a thirty-year business owner, I've created two different companies, and that is a mind set and a world view, that I will bring to this office with me," Brogdon, said.

The 4th candidate running for governor, Representative Mary Fallin, was unable to attend the debate due to a scheduling conflict, but visited Durant earlier in the week to speak to the Bryan County Republican meeting.

The debate was the first in 16 years on the SOSU campus and drew around one hundred attendants.

The next debate, sponsored by the Oklahoma Academy is scheduled for June 16th and will take place on the campus of Oklahoma City University.

Primary elections will take place July 27th and the general election is set for November 2nd.