Benson and James Clash in First Michigan Gubernatorial Debate

Democratic nominee Jocelyn Benson and Republican nominee John James held their first televised gubernatorial debate on Tuesday evening in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With the November 3 election four weeks away, the candidates clashed over the state's economic direction and the influence of federal policy on local costs.

Benson criticized James for his financial gains during his tenure in Congress and his support for military actions in Iran, which she claimed drove up gas prices. She proposed a subnational agreement with Canada to eliminate tariffs and costs she labeled the "John James tax." James countered that Benson's eight years as Secretary of State make her part of a failing leadership in Lansing. While James urged a swift end to the conflict in Iran, he maintained that the country must prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

On domestic issues, both candidates expressed openness to cutting the state gas tax, though James specifically proposed a gas tax holiday funded by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. They disagreed on data center expansion, with James advocating for local control and Benson calling for a moratorium on new developments until protective guardrails are established. The candidates found common ground on the need for privacy protections regarding flock cameras.

A second televised debate is scheduled for 8 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, at the WDIV-Local 4 studios in downtown Detroit.