The three candidates for lieutenant governor outlined very different plans at a debate Wednesday.

Democratic state Sen. Walter Dalton said he would raise the compulsory education age to 18, expand access to health care and continue to promote entrepreneurship programs.

Former Republican state Sen. Robert Pittenger said he would pay school teachers based on merit not tenure, reduce medical malpractice litigation and cut the personal income tax rate.

And Libertarian Phillip Rhodes, a first-time candidate, said he would increase competition in schools with a voucher program, end state government's involvement in mental health care and eliminate many government regulations on business.

Dalton and Pittenger said they do not support allowing illegal immigrants at the state's community colleges. Rhodes said they should pay out of state tuition. (N&O)

The N.C. Libertarian Party will have 38 candidates on the fall ballot.

The newly re-recognized party formally presented its list of candidates for state and federal offices to the State Board of Elections Monday.

As previously announced, Duke University professor Mike Munger will run for governor. Phillip Rhodes of Chapel Hill is running for lieutenant governor and Mark McMains of Fuquay-Varina for commissioner of insurance. Twenty-four candidates are running for legislative seats.

Chris Cole, a contract postal worker who lives in Huntersville, is running for U.S. Senate. Five candidates are running for Congressional seats: Will Adkins of Cary, Maximillian Longley of Durham, Thomas Hill of Concord, Andy Grum of Matthews and Keith Smith of Bostic.

Libertarian presidential candidate Bob Barr will also be on the ballot.