Candidates for governor Schuette, Whitmer face off in second debate

(WJBK) - Wednesday marked the second gubernatorial debate, two weeks before voters decide on Michigan's next governor.

Gretchen Whitmer, who is up is up in the polls right now, didn't waste any time going right for Bill Schuette in her opening statements saying that he only shows up when the cameras are on. 

Schuette rerouted the conversation several time to the economy, specifically Whitmer's plans which says would lead to an economic collapse. 

"Bill Schuette shows up when the cameras are on - but when no one's watching, he makes decisions that hurt us."

"If Gretchen Whitmer is elected governor, your job is in jeopardy, your job is in danger," Schuette said.

The first topic Wednesday night, the Michigan Roads. 

"I will write a budget in the first part of next year that dedicates $2 billion and draws down a billion from the federal government and it means we get to work right away," Whitmer said.

"We are on the track right now of $1.2 billion through 2021 on road funding," Schuette said. "I want to expand that and every aspect of government is going to chip in because the roads will be a priority."

On to the topic of education, Schuette offered the solution of grants for public schools to perform better, while Whitmer's focus was on teachers. 

"We need a governor who really is going to turn this around, with regard to education," Whitmer said. "We are in the bottom 10 in our country where we used to lead the world."

Drinking water in Michigan was brought up with the Flint water crisis a major platform issues for Schuette.

"I'm the only one on this stage who made sure that we provided justice for the families of Flint," he said. "Because I know families in Flint right now that only drink water from a plastic bottle."

Topics were broadened to issues of national and international concern like climate change, transgender rights and immigration - specifically where Michigan will stand on the sanctuary cities debate.

"We have a broken immigration system in this country," Whitmer said. "And it is not working. We need leadership from Washington DC to step up."

"Our immigration policy in America needs to be hopeful and welcoming," Schuette said. "And you have to play by the rules and you have to make sure we protect our borders."

It made for one last plea from the candidates for your votes on November 6th.

"Whether you are a Democrat, Republican or Independent, or someone who just loves this state, I am asking for your vote Nov. 6," Whitmer said.

"Michigan's best days are ahead of us if we have the right leadership," Schuette said. "I am asking for your vote please; we can do this. Michigan can win again."