Calif. Democrats nearly get physical in debate

Forget Joe Biden, Paul Ryan and the vice presidential debate. A faceoff between two veteran California Democrats in Congress nearly came to blows on Thursday.

Reps. Brad Sherman and Howard Berman are locked in one of the most bitter incumbent vs. incumbent House races in the country, as they battle for a redrawn district in the San Fernando Valley. Things almost got physical as they sparred over immigration policy and the DREAM Act at Pierce College.

There was an exchange of words. Roll Callreports Berman called Sherman a liar and the lawmakers were "nose to nose." Then Sherman put his arm around Berman: "Do you want to get into this?"

A member of the sheriff's office had to approach the men and ask them to separate -- which they did.

Brandon Hall, a senior adviser to the Berman campaign, said in a statement that Sherman "loses his mind and acts like a bully."

The Associated Press reports Sherman issued a statement saying the debate "was not conducted at the highest level. I regret my part in allowing emotions to distract from the exchange of views."

The Sherman vs. Berman race is one of eight California congressional races on the November ballot involving candidates of the same party. Under the state's new primary system, the top two vote-getters face each other in the general election regardless of party.