West Virginia’s two major party candidates for governor have agreed to a debate hosted by West Virginia MetroNews.
Democrat Steve Williams and Republican Patrick Morrisey will participate in the debate 7 to 9 p.m. Oct. 29. The debate will be broadcast live on the MetroNews radio network and will be live streamed
Election Day is Nov. 5, and early voting in West Virginia starts Oct. 23.
“MetroNews is pleased to have the opportunity to conduct this debate between these two candidates. We look forward to covering the issues that are most important to the voters of West Virginia. We hope to provide insight for the voters who will choose our next governor,” said George Pelletier, president of WVRC Media, parent company of MetroNews.
Williams is the mayor of Huntington.
Morrisey is West Virginia’s attorney general.
The most recent MetroNews West Virginia Poll showed Morrisey with a solid lead.
Morrisey is leading Williams, 49% to 35%, in the race for governor, according to the poll released in late August. The remainder preferred another candidate or were not sure.
Williams, in a statement distributed by his campaign, said he is grateful for the opportunity to debate critical issues facing the state.
“This debate is a chance for us to have an open and honest conversation about the future of West Virginia, and I look forward to engaging with Patrick Morrisey on the topics that matter most to our citizens—jobs, healthcare, education, and building a brighter future for all West Virginians,” Williams said.
Williams emphasized the importance of allowing voters to hear directly from the candidates.
“I believe every voter deserves to know where we stand and what kind of leadership we will bring to the Governor’s Office. I appreciate West Virginia MetroNews and Hoppy Kercheval for providing this forum, and I look forward to a spirited and informative discussion.”
Morrisey, in a statement distributed by his campaign, said he looks forward to highlighting his plans for West Virginia.
“I’m excited for the chance to speak directly to the people of West Virginia and share my plans for improving our state,” Morrisey said. “This debate will be an important opportunity to highlight our proposals to cut taxes, create jobs, improve education, and help West Virginia compete better against the states we touch.”