Republican gubernatorial candidate Charles D. Baker, left, independent Timothy Cahill, second left, moderator and political analyst Jon Keller, center, Gov. Deval Patrick, second right, and Green-Rainbow Party candidate Jill Stein, right, prepare for the first televised debate at the WBZ studios, Tuesday. (AP Photo/Bizuayehu Tesfaye)

The four candidates for Massachusetts governor spared on everything from jobs and health care to the best ways to close the state’s multibillion budget gap.

Gov. Deval Patrick, right, shakes hands with Republican gubernatorial candidate Charles D. Baker, left, and independent Timothy Cahill, center, prior to the start of the debate at WBZ. (AP Photo/Bizuayehu Tesfaye)

Democratic incumbent Gov. Deval Patrick defended his first term in office from stiff criticism from his three challengers – Republican Charles Baker, independent Timothy Cahill and Green-Rainbow candidate Jill Stein.

Baker said during their first televised debate on WBZ-TV and WBZ NewsRadio 1030 that Patrick hasn’t done enough to reign in spending and reform and shrink government. He also faulted him for supporting eight tax increases, including a sales tax hike.

Patrick pointed to overhauls of the state pension, ethics and transportation systems and said he’s cut the state workforce.

Cahill said he would push for tax cuts and budget cuts, including reductions to the state’s health care system.