Coe College students gear up for gubernatorial debate

In about one month, Iowans will decide who will lead the state for the next four years as governor. Thursday evening, the top two candidates will be in Cedar Rapids squaring off in their second televised debate.

Students on the Coe College Campus are anxious to see what the two leading gubernatorial candidates will say at the debate.

“I feel like I don't know a whole lot about them, but it will be interesting just to see them talk about it and learn more,” student Abby Hayes said.

Student Justin Nylin said, “What I want to know is what they're going to do for me. This is the first election I get to vote, so it will be very interesting.”

Funding for education and student loan help are both big topics they're looking to see the candidates address.

“Somebody getting an education doesn't hurt anybody and it's a good place to spend…not only for the individual, but also for what that individual is going to be able to do when they go off into society,” student Mike Mitsche said.

But, students realize that getting a degree during these tough economic times doesn't guarantee they'll get a job.

“I'm concerned about when I graduate from college how good the job market is going to end up being when I get out and the rest of us get out,” student Amy Stephan said.

While no one expects the two men to solve all of their problems, students are eager to watch the political process unfold right on their campus.

You can watch the debate live on KCRG Local 9.2 starting at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. You can also watching it streaming live here on TheGazette.com.