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Candidates for Indiana governor debate on Indiana's economy and their stance on Syrian refugees

Posted at 8:21 PM, Oct 03, 2016
and last updated 2016-10-04 00:00:21-04

INDIANAPOLIS -- Indiana's three candidates for governor faced off in their second debate Monday evening. 

Democrat John Gregg, Republican Eric Holcomb and Libertarian Rex Bell took the stage at 7 p.m at the University of Indianapolis. 

They drew some distinctions during the debate, largely centered on jobs and the economy. But one of the most surprising similarities came on a different topic: Governor Pence's ban on Syrian refugees. 

When pressed about whether he would continue the ban if a judge were to ultimately rule it legal, Lieutenant Governor Eric Holcomb differed from Governor Pence. 

"I would continue to allow the refugees to come in here and find safe haven," Holcomb said.

The statement drew praise from his opponent, John Gregg, who echoed the same sentiment putting him in line with both the Democrat and the Libertarian candidate, Rex Bell.

"It is wrong to ban people because they worship differently or they don't worship at all, or they look different from me or they look different from you," said Gregg.

But one thing the three candidates did not agree on is the health of Indiana's economy.

"We understand that the government does not create jobs," said Bell, "What we need to do is create an atmosphere where jobs can be created by citizens and by businesses."

Bell said he will bring his experience as a long-time small business owner.

Gregg said he won't expect the status quo, and will respect all Hoosiers. 

And Holcomb said he'd build on twelve years of progress and his experience serving with former Governor Mitch Daniels.

Watch the full debate below: