Michigan Senate candidates Mike Rogers (R) and Elissa Slotkin (D), met for their final debate on Oct. 14. Rogers asserted his beliefs and stances in an attempt to appeal to Michiganders.
The two candidates had a minute to respond to each question with the opportunity to dispute. Let’s break down some of the key issues discussed and Rogers’ stances on the economy, foreign affairs, abortion, immigration, gun violence, education and financial stability.
Economy
Rogers attributed economic hardship to the Biden-Harris administration. He claimed government spending was to blame for rising prices and proposed some solutions. He also commented on stopping EV mandates and instead pursued hybrid vehicles as policy.
“You have to do a few things — energy independence — You have to undo the regulation— $1.6 trillion of new regulation in the last four years, and you have to make sure that we curtail spending to get our economy back on track,” Rogers said.
Rogers also claimed that using nuclear energy and letting the market decide would help the environment.
Foreign Affairs
Rogers emphasized that Iran was the main focus and enemy. Rogers also declared his overall support for Israel.
“I would make sure that we support Israel, our great ally in the region, to be able to defend themselves. I would do a lend-lease program with Ukraine,” Rogers said.
Abortion
Rogers promised to respect the decision Michiganders made in uncodifying abortion rights in the state constitution.
“This is the most heart-wrenching decision a woman would ever have to make, and I think it’s best made with her family, with her partner, with her faith and with her doctor in where she lives,” Rogers said.
Immigration
Rogers supported the Remain in Mexico policy, which would keep immigrants at the southern border in Mexico until they are legally admitted into the U.S. Rogers also stated that he will make it easier for immigrants to get into the country legally.
Gun Violence
Rogers supported enforcing the current gun laws but did not call for any further gun restrictions. Instead, Rogers linked the gun violence crisis to deteriorating mental health in the U.S.
“We’re going to have to come together on how we get ahead of these problems. Banning guns isn’t going to do it,” Rogers said.
Education
Rogers pointed out the poor state of reading levels in the U.S. and focused on this point as an area to improve.
“We support reading reclamation programs where they go into the school, they take these kids out an hour a day … and get kids reading back at grade level,” Rogers said.
Financial Stability
Rogers commented on healthcare costs and claimed the U.S. was taking the brunt of the world’s healthcare research and cost.
“We’re going to make sure we do average sales price, including international to bring their prices up and our prices down,” Rogers said.
On the topic of financial safety nets, Rogers stressed bipartisan action. He also supported a program that would incentivize citizens with student debt to serve in critical areas like school counseling or the military in exchange for forgiving college debt.
