Benson, James campaigns reflect on messages of first gubernatorial debate

In the hour-long debate, Benson and James clashed over tariffs, data centers, and state leadership, trading accusations of self-enrichment and political failures.

In our post-debate interview, Benson’s running mate, Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks emphasized that her ticket presents a positive, detailed plan for Michigan’s future.

“Jocelyn Benson makes a very compelling case about how she would apply her track record of success over at Secretary of State's office to all of state government. She's got to focus on lowering costs and making life easier for Michiganders, and I think she did an excellent job bringing the stories of real Michiganders that we've met on the trail to the table and connecting that to policy items that she is working to accomplish that will make people's lives easier.”

John James framed the election as giving the voters a choice for change.

“I think the area I came out the strongest is actually having specific plans to lower costs and create good paying jobs and fix our schools and keep our communities safe. All of those little details that all 10,000,000 Michiganders - regardless of race, color, creed, or political party - can get behind. We did our best to communicate that and we've been getting good feedback since.”

The candidates did find some common ground.

Both expressed openness to suspending the state gas tax to ease driver costs, and both endorsed a temporary moratorium on data center development until community guardrails are in place.

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