After a heated debate between former Agawam Mayor Richard Cohen and his opponent Derek Benton, another candidate is demanding that Benton withdraw from the race.

Talking about the town's issues did not seem to be a priority for Agawam's mayoral candidates Derek Benton and former Mayor Richard Cohen.

Instead, there was name calling from Benton, putting Cohen on the defense. Benton said the first difference was their appearance and went on from there.

"I would consider myself to be the energizer bunny. I'm out there, I'm plowing the pavement, I'm making the calls and I've always brought a precise work ethic to each and every avenue whether it's business or a non profit sector unlike, kind of like a lazy slug on the other side who would just sit in his office and just sit there," Benton said Wednesday night.

Write-In candidate Cecilia Calabrese was part of the crowd booing at Town Hall. She was put off by the remark.

"Should this person end up serving as mayor? How is he going to be a credible representative, and how are we as the citizens of Agawam going to be able to hold our head up high and proud and say yes, that is our Mayor when he resorts to childish name calling?" Calabrese asked.

Benton referred to Cohen as a clown and a candy salesman. He also made negative comments about Cohen's age.

"Agawam, when did the office of Mayor become a hobby for retirees?" Benton said.

Cohen did not retaliate but did defend himself.

"Experience, experience, experience. When I was in office our bond ratings were low. I don't have to explain that they were low. Why? Because we did our job," Cohen said.

"I believe Mr. Benton owes the city of Agawam an apology and needs to immediately withdraw from this Mayors race," Calabrese said.

Benton declined to comment on camera the day after the debate, but he said over the phone that he has no intention of dropping out and received positive comments about the debate.