From The Journal of Martinsburg:
If you watched or listened to the Tuesday night televised debate between the two leading contenders for governor of West Virginia, chances are that unless you are a true policy wonk, you learned something about both of them.
Both Republican Bill Cole and Democrat Jim Justice expounded upon their visions for the Mountain State and how they hope to get us there. Though there was some partisan sniping, there was nothing like the intensely personal animosity seen in the race for president.
Both men appeared to be prepared for the debate. Neither dodged questions. Each was respectful toward his opponent, the moderator — and thus, their fellow West Virginians.
There were no “gotcha” personal jabs.
In all likelihood, the debate changed few minds among those who plan to vote for governor on Nov. 8. Both candidates have appeal in different ways.
Credit for much of the quality of the debate goes to its sponsors, the West Virginia Press Association and AARP West Virginia. Officials of both organizations worked hard and at times were frustrated by the process. But the debate they pulled off was worth the effort.
Kudos, too, to the moderator, Ashton Marra of West Virginia Public Broadcasting, and to WVPB for airing the event.
Was the debate as entertaining as the one several days ago between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton? Well, no. Did it provide as much “red meat” for supporters of the candidates? No again.
But here in West Virginia, we’re more interested in learning about the candidates than in watching them go for each other’s throats. How much difference does that make? If you watched both debates, ask yourself this: In terms of policy, not personality, which one was more informative?
