(05/02/06) NEWARK ? The four Newark mayoral candidates faced each other in a debate at the Rutgers University campus in Newark Tuesday night.

Nancy Rosenstock, David Blount, Cory Booker and Ron Rice fielded questions on a wide variety of issues from students. Rosenstock was highly critical of the new arena in Newark. According to Rosenstock, the $300 million spent on the facility should have been used in other areas of the city. Blount took the opportunity to blast the housing authority?s efforts for low-income housing.

Booker became the subject of criticism when the issue arose of his campaign contributions from celebrities such as Chris Rock and Oprah Winfrey. Booker says he?s happy to have received such broad support. However, Rice says celebrity contributors don?t care about the city and its residents.

The candidates will face off in another debate Wednesday. The election is one week away.