BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Backers of Republican U.S. House candidate Kevin Cramer are delaying crucial new federal farm legislation by threatening electoral retribution against candidates who support it, Democratic rival Pam Gulleson says.

The two candidates spoke Tuesday during a half-hour debate at Prairie Public’s television studios in Fargo that was recorded for later showings on the statewide public broadcasting network. The first airing will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday.