Ebrahim Raisi says there's now about 16 million people living in the outskirts of big cities.
And now Jahangiri is speaking. He's believed to be in the race to defend Rohani's policies. He says the government has created a council to deal with the issue.
Tehran Mayor Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf says Iran has about 11 million people living in the outskirts of big cities. He says Iran needs a long-term plan and one for the near future.
President Hassan Rohani is the third candidate to answer the moderator's question about poor people living in the outskirts of big cities. He says unemployment is a major factor.
Mostafa Hashemitaba is next. He ran in 2001 and finished 10th, winning a paltry 28,000 votes.
Mirsalim was asked about what to do about poor people living in the margins of big cities.
Mostafa Mirsalim,former culture minister, was drawn to be the first to speak in today's debate.
A few hours before the debate, Tehran’s Friday prayers Leader hard-line Ayatollah Khatami said that candidates should have the interests of the establishment in mind while debating. He added that comments that weaken the establishment are considered haram.
Here are some of the social and economic issues that are likely to arise in the April 28 debate and throughout the campaign.
Talking Points: Social, Economic Issues Focus Of First Iran Debate
The moderator says the debate will focus on social issues. The state TV had originally said that the focus would be on socioeconomic issues.