Omaha World-Herald - "Drug Tests Become Issue in Omaha-Area House Race"

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Omaha World-Herald - "Drug Tests Become Issue in Omaha-Area House Race"

Democratic congressional candidates Richard Carter and Jim Esch took drug tests Thursday after sparring over the idea following a campaign debate.

During the Wednesday debate, Carter asked Esch if he would take a drug test before taking office. Carter said it would set a good example for children.

Esch accepted the challenge, but no time was discussed.

After the debate, Esch said, Carter handed him a piece of paper with an appointment for a Thursday morning drug test at a local clinic, suggesting they meet there.

Esch declined, saying he already had a full campaign schedule.

Carter said he took the test — passing screenings for 10 different drugs, according to his campaign.

Esch took his own test later in the day. He promised to make his results public when they are returned in the next few days.

Carter and Esch are seeking the Democratic nomination for Nebraska's 2nd District House seat.

The Carter campaign said it raised the issue to highlight the problem of drug abuse, not to imply that Esch was taking drugs.

Carter noted that, as an Air Force reservist, he takes regular drug tests as do many other federal employees.

"We're not insinuating anything with Jim," said Natalie Benson, Carter's spokeswoman. "He's (Esch) not the focus, it's about the kids that face rising drug abuse in their communities."

The Esch campaign complained that Carter "ambushed" him with the drug test question, but the candidate said he was happy to take a test on his own schedule.

"Unlike them, apparently, we're running a campaign here. I have a packed schedule. I can't just rearrange everything to take a test," Esch said.

"We'll pay whatever it costs to take this test to prove that I'm not taking drugs. Obviously, I have nothing to hide."

He said he didn't understand why Carter didn't discuss drug tests with him before the debate.

"To be honest, I don't understand the point," Esch said. "I thought it was an odd question. But that's fine if they want to take drug tests."

Esch said he chose the Charles Drew Health Center in north Omaha for his test to highlight the clinic's work with low-income patients.

"Charles Drew is an amazing place, so if we're going to do this test, I figured we may as well promote the work they're doing here," he said.

The debate, moderated by a panel of black community leaders, was televised on Cox Communications' Channel 22.

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