IN Debate Reviews: John Gregg a ‘clear winner;’ Holcomb ‘simply has not impressed’

IN Debate Reviews: John Gregg a ‘clear winner;’ Holcomb ‘simply has not impressed’

Indy Star’s Matthew Tully: Gregg ‘ready to step into the job of being governor’      

The reviews are in on last night’s gubernatorial debate in Indiana, and scorecards from political pundits show John Gregg a ‘clear winner.’

During the debate, Gregg “focused on exactly the right issues and messages” to lead Indiana forward, and proved himself “ready to step into the job of being governor.” Meanwhile, Eric Holcomb “offered few details,” and instead “made the case for the status quo.” 

Here’s what reporters are saying about last night’s performances:

Indy Star Columnist Mattew Tully: John Gregg was this debate’s clear winner

“John Gregg was the clear winner in Monday night’s gubernatorial debate … While Gregg was confident, clear and detailed, and focused on exactly the right issues and messages, Holcomb’s performance made clear he has not yet synthesized a message or crafted a deep policy agenda.”

“On issue after issue — as Gregg offered details about the need to empower local government, to invest in preschool and infrastructure, on LGBT rights — Holcomb offered few details and seemed to be playing defense.”

“You were left with a clear idea of how Gregg would lead Indiana.”

WISH-TV (Indianapolis): Gregg takes command in second gubernatorial debate

“Democrat John Gregg put in a strong performance. He proved that he is a more experienced candidate than Republican Eric Holcomb”

Times of Northwest Indiana: Indiana governor candidates tackle variety of issues in second debate

“Republican Lt. Gov. Eric Holcomb made the case for the status quo Monday at the University of Indianapolis in the second of three gubernatorial debates, while Democratic former House Speaker John Gregg insisted Indiana needs new leadership following the often controversial administration of Republican Gov. Mike Pence.”

Fox-59 (Indianapolis): Candidates for Indiana governor square off in second debate

“Gregg was quick to point out the state’s lagging per capita income.  The former House Speaker also seized on the recent controversy over the controversial Religious Freedom Restoration Act, signed into law by Governor Pence last year. ‘This issue has hurt us economically,’ said Gregg.”

Fort Wayne Journal Gazette: Social issues, economy, pre-K among major debate topics          

“Right now, it is legal under Indiana law to discriminate based on a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity in housing, employment and public accommodations. Holcomb said the two sides are too far apart and no compromise can be found on the topic.”

“Gregg returned to the topic several times, noting the Indiana Chamber of Commerce supports the measure and Indiana should be a welcoming state to attract and retain talent.”

WISH-TV (Indianapolis): Gregg takes command in second gubernatorial debate

“Gregg made reference to the RFRA crisis at the beginning and the end of the debate and made this declaration in the middle. ‘We would sign an executive order that would give civil rights protection to the members of the LGBT community that work for the state of Indiana.’” 

“Holcomb held to a position that calls for the status quo.”

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