Both men said that the flag’s design, which features the controversial Confederate battle emblem, should be changed by the people and not the Legislature. Hughes also stated that the flag was a barrier to economic development in Thursday’s WJTV debate in Jackson. Hosemann stated that he doesn’t hear any concerns about the flag from economic developers. Hughes described the flag as “a tattoo on your neck”, something that economic developers must explain to state officials when recruiting industry. It was likely that there were more areas where candidates agreed than they disagreed. Both candidates stressed the importance for teachers to get raises. Hosemann, who is a three-term secretary of state, stated that the teacher raise would be passed in the beginning of the year, rather than the salary increase being passed at its conclusion. “… The amount will depend on how much money we have, but there will always be a significant increase every year.” Hosemann, a three-term secretary of state, suggested that local counties could impose a motor fuel tax between 2 and 6 cents in order to fund road and bridge construction. Hughes suggested that the 7 percent tax on internet sales be returned to the county from which it was purchased. Recently, the U.S. Supreme Court gave the power to the states to collect the internet sales tax. Hughes stated that the court’s ruling was a boon to state revenue collection and should be returned back to local governments. Hughes said that he was born into poverty and has had economic success. Some of us weren’t born with a silver spoon in the mouth. My mother was blessed with a plastic spoon. This does not mean that Mr. Hosemann is right or wrong. Both of us have different experiences. Hosemann replied, “That is what I want. Hosemann suggested live streaming and archiving major legislative committee meetings to increase transparency. Live streaming is currently available for the floor action in the two chambers. Hughes stated that he has been proposing such actions for many years. Hosemann stated that he would like to see all agencies, with the exception of education, child protection services, and judiciary, reduce their budgets by 1% and give that money to state employees for a pay increase. Hughes said that he supports a pay increase. Hughes also stated that he supports expanding Medicaid and would accept additional federal funds to ensure health coverage for the working poor. Hosemann wasn’t as direct but said he would expand access to healthcare and “bring everyone to the table” in order to discuss the issue. “We have done our job well. Hosemann stated that he believes we will continue to perform in the future. Hughes is a Democrat, but he stated that he could work with other parties. He said, “I am all for transparency.” Hosemann was then asked about his collaboration with Lt. Governor. Tate Reeves would be the next governor if he wins this November. Reeves has strongly opposed a higher gasoline tax and expanding Medicaid. Hosemann stated that he would bring everyone to the table, regardless of whether Reeves or Democrat Jim Hood is involved. Hughes and Hosemann disagreed sharply about raising the minimum wage. Hughes stated that he supports raising the minimum wage to $7.25 an hour and that it would improve the state’s economic health. Hosemann stated that it was up to the companies to decide whether to raise the minimum wage._x000D