USA TODAY NETWORK - Tennessee to host gubernatorial forum in Jackson focused on rural issues
The Jackson Sun and the USA TODAY NETWORK - Tennessee are hosting a gubernatorial forum in April focused exclusively on issues facing rural Tennesseans.
The state's largest news organization is partnering with the Jackson Chamber, the Jackson Energy Authority, Lane College, Leadership Tennessee and WBBJ Television on the April 17 event.
The forum will focus on rural issues and how state policies — including education and workforce development, economic development and health care — affect these areas.
The Rural Tennessee Gubernatorial Forum will take place at Lane College in Jackson at 6:30 p.m. CDT.
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“Most counties in our state are rural communities with unique opportunities and challenges, and the decisions made in Nashville affect us daily,” said Kyle Spurgeon, President/CEO of the Jackson Chamber.
“We’re excited to host the gubernatorial candidates in Jackson for a discussion about how state policy affects our area and similar communities across Tennessee.”
Keli McAlister will moderate the discussion. WBBJ will televise the event, and the USA TODAY NETWORK - Tennessee will provide additional coverage, including a livestream on all of its Tennessee properties.
"From health care to the economy, rural Tennesseans face unique challenges, and how the next governor plans to address those issues is critical," said Michael A. Anastasi, vice president of news for the USA TODAY NETWORK - Tennessee. "We're pleased to help host this forum with our partners from WBBJ so voters can get a clearer picture of where the candidates stand."
Spurgeon said the state has made "significant progress improving education, reducing unemployment, and increasing workforce readiness."
"This forum will help continue the positive momentum of rural conversations, which are critical to the growth and prosperity of our rural communities," he said.
The USA TODAY NETWORK - Tennessee co-hosted gubernatorial forums on education in January and health care in February.
On May 15, the USA TODAY NETWORK - Tennessee also will co-host a forum at Lipscomb University in Nashville with Leadership Tennessee and Nexstar Media Group, which owns WKRN and other television stations across the state.