DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) – The first LIVE televised debate was held Monday night at the WFAA-TV studios in South Victory in Dallas.
Dallas City Councilman Scott Griggs and State Representative Eric Johnson squared off in the moderated debate less than three weeks before the runoff election. The topic of the City’s Police Department was consistently discussed throughout the debate.
Griggs said he is confident in his ability to work with Police amid a reported shortage of Officers on the force.
“I’ve got a plan to add more Officers,” We need more Officers. Right now our Officers are exhausted. We have to maintain a culture of safety in Dallas.
Griggs prioritized increasing pay and benefits for Officers. While Johnson pledged to provide a level of morale beneficial to the department.
“Officers want to feel like the mayor has their back,” said Johnson. “I would, as Mayor.”
Griggs said he find more money in the city’s budget to pay Police Officers more money.
“I will find the money to cut, and I will grow the tax base.”
Johnson argued Griggs’ strategy and vowed to build the tax base first.
The candidates also discussed gentrification of Dallas neighborhoods, and improving city streets.
Johnson and Griggs took questions from Dallas residents on social media after the broadcast. Election day is June 8.
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