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By SARA KUGLER Associated Press Writer NEW YORK (AP) The Democrat trying to unseat popular New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg lobbed multiple attacks at him during their first debate and called him a liar.

City Comptroller William Thompson Jr. is trying to portray the billionaire Bloomberg as opportunistic for political moves he's made.

Those moves include changing his registration from lifelong Democrat to Republican to avoid a crowded primary in 2001 and persuading the City Council to extend the term-limits law so he could run again.

Thompson said Tuesday night the mayor lied to the people of New York City.

The candidates also clashed about education, housing and how money affects political support.

Thompson says Bloomberg buys support by donating to city organizations. Bloomberg says Thompson is bought by SPECIAL interests.

Bloomberg is running on the Republican and Independent Party lines.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 10-13-09 2031CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list