LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – The candidates racing to fill Michigan Senator Debbie Stabenow’s seat faced off in the first of two debates this month. Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin and former Congressman Mike Rogers took the stage in Grand Rapids on Tuesday.
Michigan State University’s head debate coach Will Repko said this week’s performance continues a trend from last week’s Vice Presidential debate. With a calmer tone, Repko said fewer interruptions allowed both sides to discuss their stances and plans in greater detail.
As expected, questions were focused on FEMA and disaster response, foreign policy stances, the rising cost of living, border security, and the electric vehicle and energy transition.
Repko said he was interested to see Slotkin had a strategy heading into the debate that he thinks worked in her favor.
“I think both candidates did very well last night. There were far fewer moments when the moderators needed to interrupt, I think it was a welcome surprise.” Repko said. “She had a strategy that was designed to say ‘don’t believe what is being said. look at everyone’s record.’.”
This year, viral moments from debates have had a big impact on voters online. Repko said the candidates avoided a social media moment this time around, but continuing that into the next debate will be critical for both candidates to maintain a positive image online.
“Your style can be fantastic for 59 minutes, and if you have one minute that goes wrong. that’s the one that kind of shows up on loop.” Repko said. “They both did well and I expect another good, well-argued debate to happen next week,” Repko said. “There were moments of contrast last night, to be sure but I do think both candidates were seeking to be very bipartisan, and I think it it shines through.”
Repko said these debates are especially important this year because the race is expected to be a close one. In a swing state, both candidates face the challenge of reaching enough voters on the other side to secure the seat.
If Slotkin wins the seat next month, Michigan will continue with a decades-long trend of Democratic Senators, but if Rogers manages to secure the vote he will be the first Republican Senator from Michigan in over two decades.
WZMQ will air the second debate on Monday, October 14 at 7 pm.
