Swedish PM contenders battle over household money in debate

Sweden will hold a national election on September 13th.

Swedish political leaders debated household finances in a televised event.

The debate was held by Expressen and Dagens industri.

All parties promise to leave more money in voters' pockets.

However, opposition leaders accused the government of supporting unfair policies.

Social Democrat leader Magdalena Andersson targeted the Prime Minister.

She claimed Ulf Kristersson and Jimmie Åkesson gave themselves a 6,000 kronor tax cut.

She added that Liberal promises would save Kristersson another 15,000 kronor.

Ulf Kristersson rejected her claims.

He accused Andersson of taking low-tax dividends to boost her income.

He said her income grew by 50,000 kronor a month this way.

Andersson called his statement complete nonsense.

Green Party co-leader Amanda Lind argued that only wealthy people benefited recently.

Sweden Democrat leader Jimmie Åkesson defended the government.

He highlighted cuts to food VAT, electricity tax, and income tax.

Left Party leader Nooshi Dadgostar noted that ordinary families pay 10,000 kronor more monthly.

She promised higher pay for public sector workers and free dental care.

She also proposed higher child benefits and a rent freeze.

The debate exposed differences over a proposed wealth tax on billionaires.

Centre Party leader Elisabeth Thand Ringqvist warned against scaring entrepreneurs away from Sweden.

Christian Democrat leader Ebba Busch welcomed the opposition split.

The report was originally published by The Local.