Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a Democrat, and Rep. John James (R-Mich.) clashed over tariffs on Canada, the war in Iran, and Medicaid in the first debate of the race for Michigan governor on Oct. 6.
The hour-long debate, hosted by the local NBC-affiliate in Grand Rapids, came less than a month before the Nov. 3 election for an open seat.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, is term-limited.
Benson, the Democratic nominee, repeatedly tied James to President Donald Trump.
James, an Army combat veteran and businessman, said he has pushed back on the administration over tariffs and the war, and blamed Michigan’s economic struggles on eight years of Democratic leadership in Lansing….