Two Republican candidates for Governor Bill Waller Jr. and Representative Robert Foster participated in a debate at Mississippi State University hosted by MSU College Republicans.
The debate was held on April 2, at 6:30 p.m. in the Bettersworth auditorium. While two of the Republican candidates were in attendance, Lt. Governor Tate Reeves was absent for the event. The crowd averaged about 100 on the campus.
I am very much looking forward to Tuesday’s debate at @msstate. With legislative session now over, even @tatereeves can attend. Going to be an incredible evening and a good opportunity for Mississippians to educate themselves on who will be their next CEO. #mselex #MSGOV pic.twitter.com/1GIWjdc2HL
— Robert Foster (@RobertFoster4MS) April 1, 2019
Both candidates participating relayed on social media that they were excited for the event and pleased with the way it was conducted.
Heather and I are excited about taking the debate stage tonight at @msstate, and making my case as a political outsider who can bring an outside-the-box way of thinking to our state government. We hope you will join us by watching online ?? https://t.co/qOnSwGo8Eq #msgov
— Robert Foster (@RobertFoster4MS) April 2, 2019
No softball questions tonight at the debate — where we discussed the big issues facing our state. Thanks again @HailStateGOP pic.twitter.com/f3VLHzg9EF
— Bill Waller (@BillWallerMS) April 3, 2019
Both candidates discussed how their backgrounds would make them the most appropriate pick for the state’s next Governor. Foster, a businessman from north Mississippi and Waller a businessman in the private sector, as well as 20 years on the Mississippi Supreme Court.
The questions centered around tax revenue and where that money should be invested as well as needs to improve education. Both focused on infrastructure and education needs., offering different ideas on how it could be best used in and out of the classroom. Both candidates were strong on strengthening vocational education option and job training.
One debated issue this year was an expansion of Medicaid. Waller and Foster both said some type of Medicaid expansion should be considered.
Sarah Ulmer
