Michigan’s first gubernatorial debate pits the incumbent secretary of state, a Democrat, against a Republican challenger in a tight race to replace the state’s term-limited governor. With Election Day approaching, the candidates will square off on key issues as they vie for votes in a closely watched contest. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report has already weighed in on the race, signaling its competitive nature. The debate could offer critical insights into how each candidate plans to address the state’s priorities ahead of the final stretch.


Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson (D) and Rep. John James (R-Mich.) will face off Tuesday night in the first gubernatorial debate of the general election. Benson and James are battling to succeed term-limited Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) as Michigan’s next governor, with Election Day just weeks away. The nonpartisan election handicapper Cook Political Report...