The Jackson Chamber today announced a partnership to host a gubernatorial candidate forum on April 17, 2018, at 6:30pm CDT at Lane College. Joining the Jackson Chamber, the additional partners include Jackson Energy Authority, Lane College, WBBJ Television, the USA TODAY NETWORK – Tennessee, and Leadership Tennessee. The forum will focus on rural issues in Tennessee and how state policies, including education and workforce development, economic development and health care, affect these areas.

“Most counties in our state are rural communities with unique opportunities and challenges, and the decisions made in Nashville affect us daily,” said Kyle Spurgeon, president/CEO of the Jackson Chamber. “We’re excited to host the gubernatorial candidates in Jackson for a discussion about how state policy affects our area and similar communities across Tennessee.”

Keli McAlister will moderate the discussion. WBBJ will televise the event, and the USA TODAY NETWORK -- Tennessee will provide additional coverage, including a live stream on all of its Tennessee properties.

“Tennessee has made significant progress improving education, reducing unemployment, and increasing workforce readiness,” Spurgeon said. “This forum will help continue the positive momentum of rural conversations, which are critical to the growth and prosperity of our rural communities.”