How To Watch Jocelyn Benson, John James Debate For MI Governor Thursday

Republican candidate John James and Democratic candidate Jocelyn Benson will face off in a gubernatorial debate Thursday.

WDIV (Channel 4) will air the debate live from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Local 4 studios in downtown Detroit.

The one-hour debate will include one commercial break and will be held without an audience.

The two are battling to replace Michigan Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who cannot run again after serving two terms.

Benson has centered her campaign on cutting essential costs for families, such as health care, prescription drugs, auto insurance and housing.

James, on the other hand, believes stronger economic growth, fewer regulations, and eliminating government waste would eventually reduce the state’s reliance on income tax revenue.

Both candidates have talked about limiting data centers, though they differ on approach. Benson has discussed a statewide ban, while James believes local communities should take the lead.

A Mitchell Research and Communications poll found Benson holds a seven-point lead in the race. In the poll, Benson has 90 percent of Democrats, while James has 84 percent of Republicans. Among independents, Benson leads 43 percent to 32 percent.