The two candidates for the vacant 41st District seat in the state Senate expressed different opinions on taxing natural gas wells, state pension obligations, tax reform and economic development in a public debate Thursday.

The debate between Republican Joe Pittman and Democrat Susan Boser, both of India County, was hosted by Butler County Community College and sponsored by the Butler County Chamber of Commerce and the Butler Eagle. The debate was broadcast by Armstrong and the Butler Radio Network.

Pittman and Boser are running in a special election being held during the May 21 primary to serve the two years left in the term of former Sen. Don White who retired from the seat in March due to health reasons.

The district includes eastern Butler County, Armstrong and Indiana counties, as well as part of Westmoreland County.

See complete coverage in Friday's print edition of the Butler Eagle or subscribe online.