ST. LOUIS, Missouri — Democratic candidates seeking the party's nomination to run for an open seat in the Missouri Governor's office have agreed to participate in a televised debate that will air in a special episode of The Record at 11 p.m. on Sunday night, July 14.
Rep. Crystal Quade, the Democratic House Minority Leader, and Mike Hamra, a prominent Springfield business owner, accepted invitations to face off against each other in the 5 On Your Side studios just a little over three weeks before the Aug. 6 primary.
5 On Your Side Political Editor Mark Maxwell will moderate the debate alongside veteran journalist Carol Daniel with Nine PBS. The debate will be simulcast on 5 On Your Side's digital streaming platforms.
“I look forward to the opportunity to discuss the issues Missouri families are facing and how a Quade administration will be focused on helping working families beat the odds," Quade said. "We must focus on making our state the best place to live, work, start a business, and raise a family. I’m thankful we’ll have the chance for voters to hear directly where I stand and how we can move Missouri forward.”
"It’s important for voters to hear what candidates have to say, and I look forward to sharing my vision for Missouri's future and how we can get things done for Missouri families," Hamra said.
5 On Your Side and Nine PBS are also teaming up with KSHB, the NBC affiliate in Kansas City, to moderate and broadcast a GOP primary debate in the Missouri governor's race on July 24. Three podiums are prepared for candidates Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, and state senator Bill Eigel. To date, only Ashcroft and Eigel have confirmed their appearance.
"We are excited for the opportunity to host the candidates seeking the highest office in Missouri," 5 On Your Side's Director of Content Morgan Schaab said. "These televised debates will give our viewers a chance to evaluate the candidates and consider their proposals ahead of one of the state's most consequential elections in years."