In the first of two planned debates, Republican Gov. Brian Kemp and his Democrat opponent Stacey Abrams will square off once more. But before their first debate in the 2018 election, the two had previously debated on the same stage.
Kemp is ahead 52% to 46% in the most recent CBS News Battleground Tracker poll. Even those who have already cast their ballots told CBS News they still intend to watch Monday’s debate as early in-person voting started in Georgia on Monday.
Although she has high hopes for both candidates, Olivia Bonnei, who cast her ballot early today in Cobb County, said she’ll be watching to see how her choice, Stacey Abrams, performs.
Sid Welch, who cast his ballot early on Monday, will be keeping an eye on Kemp to see if he emphasizes his record as Welch thinks he ought to.
Sue Garner has also cast a ballot, but she still wants to know more about the positions taken by each contender.
Kemp will highlight his accomplishments as governor, as well as his “plan to build a safer, stronger Georgia,” according to spokesman Tate Mitchell. Mitchell contrasted Abrams with Kemp, saying Abrams is “fighting to keep Georgia locked down, kids barred from the classroom, defund the police, and eliminate cash bail.”
Although Abrams’ campaign declined to discuss her approach, she gave a preview of some of the arguments she will likely make Monday night regarding Kemp in an interview with CBS News last month.
Kemp, who spoke with CBS News last month as well, stated that the economy is his main campaign issue.
This evening’s debate will also feature Libertarian contender Shane Hazel. The Georgia Public Broadcasting website will be hosting a live webcast of the discussion starting at 7 p.m. ET.
