The five candidates seeking to replace Secretary of State John Kerry in the US Senate held their first debates on March 27. The debates were split into two sessions, with the Republican candidates (Gabriel Gomez, Mike Sullivan, Dan Winslow) discussing the issues for 30 minutes, before the Democratic candidates (Stephen Lynch and Ed Markey) had their turn.

Pictured: Sign-holders for Lynch and Markey were out in force outside the entrance to WCVB-TV in Needham prior to the debate. Channel 5 hosted the debate sessions.

A police officer helped to direct traffic near the TV station.

State Representative Dan Winslow (center) listened to a technician as Cohasset businessman Gabriel Gomez (right) took his position prior to the Republican debate.

State Representative Daniel Winslow (left), former US Attorney for Massachusetts Michael Sullivan (center), and Cohasset businessman Gabriel Gomez prepared for the debate.

The candidates listened to the moderator, R.D. Sahl (right), prior to the debate.

Winslow, Sullivan, and Gomez listened to Sahl prior to the debate.

After the Republican candidates held court for 30 minutes, it was time for the Democrats to hit the stage.

Pictured: US Representatives Stephen Lynch (center) and Ed Markey (right) prepared for their debate.

Lynch and Markey prepared for their debate, as moderator Sahl looked on.

Lynch and Markey crossed paths and exchanged a brief handshake as Lynch left the Channel 5 studios following the debate.

Lynch was leaving the studios after meeting with members of the media following the debate.