INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The two major party candidates for governor in Indiana faced off in a debate Wednesday night in Indianapolis.
The first question each nominee was asked concerned wages in the state of Indiana.
Indiana’s next governor will be one of the highest paid in the country, receiving a 65% pay increase compared to what Governor Holcomb is making now. Yet, the states minimum wage hasn’t changed since 2009.
Each candidate laid out their plans to keep Hoosiers up with inflation.
We need to make sure we fertilize the field of entrepreneurs because they often times are that next best business that grow wages and opportunities for hard-working Hoosiers.
Mike Braun – Republican Governor Nominee
We released our common-sense economic development plan, which included ways to get down utility costs. Which included ways to get down healthcare costs and increase our talent pool of workers in order to attract and retain good paying jobs and get those wages up.
Jennifer McCormick – Democratic Governor Nominee
Earlier this week, Braun’s campaign released an advertisement attacking McCormick’s record but failed to disclose that it contained digitally altered material. This violated a new state law. The campaign has since corrected the ad.
Senator Braun was asked if he is comfortable with his campaign fabricating images.
We immediately responded to that and did it as quickly as you can, to take it off. The point is still there. If you want to espouse those policies, be clear about it.
Mike Braun – Republican Governor Nominee
In 2016, McCormick ran for Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction as a Republican, winning that election. Five years later, she switched to the Democratic Party.
She responded to the question on if she’ll be on board with the Democratic Party’s platform this year because of her history.
Yes, the party and I are aligned to a lot of issues, and they have been very receptive. I am proud to be a Democrat.
Jennifer McCormick – Democratic Governor Nominee
The one-hour debate concluded with McCormick saying she understands the importance of the position and specifically brought up freedom.
While Braun finished saying he has found the American dream in Indiana but knows there is work to be done.
If you are not registered to vote, Indiana’s voter registration deadline is just days away on October 7th, as early voting begins on the 8th.
