Memphis city councilwoman Jerri Green, the Democratic nominee for Tennessee governor, will join independent candidates David Hatley and Lauren Pinkston for a live televised debate on Tuesday, Oct. 27. The forum, organized by the Tennessee Press Association, will be held at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro at 7 p.m. CDT.
All three participants have agreed to the debate in the interest of giving voters a clear view of their platforms ahead of the midterm election. Green said the event offers a rare opportunity for Tennesseans to hear directly from the major contenders in a nonpartisan setting. “We want the public to understand where each candidate stands on the issues that affect families and communities across the state,” she told Action News 5.
Republican nominee invited
U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn, the Republican nominee for governor, has also been invited to the debate. While her attendance has not yet been confirmed, the organizers expressed hope that she will join the discussion, noting that her presence would complete the lineup of the state’s leading candidates.
“Having Sen. Blackburn at the table would give voters a full picture of the choices before them,” said David Gould, president of the Tennessee Press Association. “This is the first time in eight years that Tennessee voters will elect a new governor, and it’s vital that they hear from all major candidates in an open forum.”
How the debate will be broadcast
The debate will be staged in a studio setting on the MTSU campus. A student‑led video production team from the university, in partnership with TPA member newspapers across the state, will livestream the event, making it accessible to viewers throughout Tennessee.
Early voting for the gubernatorial race begins on Oct. 14, and Election Day is scheduled for Nov. 3. Voters are encouraged to watch the debate to inform their decisions at the polls.
What’s at stake
The upcoming election will determine who leads Tennessee’s executive branch for the next four years. Key issues expected to dominate the debate include economic development, education reform, public safety, and the preservation of traditional family values. Each candidate has pledged to prioritize policies that support families, uphold constitutional freedoms, and strengthen the state’s economy.
Green, a longtime public servant, emphasizes expanding access to quality education and protecting voting rights. Hatley, an independent businessman, focuses on reducing government regulation and fostering job growth. Pinkston, also running as an independent, highlights the need for transparent government and fiscal responsibility.
As the debate approaches, Tennessee voters have a chance to hear directly from the candidates on how they plan to address the challenges facing the state. The live forum promises a candid exchange of ideas, offering a valuable resource for anyone preparing to cast a ballot in November.
Original reporting: Action News 5 WMC (Gray) — read the source article.
