The Latest: Governor hopefuls clash over taxes at debate

CHICAGO (AP) – The Latest on the first debate in the Illinois governor’s race (all times local):

6:30 p.m.

The candidates for Illinois governor are clashing over taxes during their first televised debate.

Democrat J.B. Pritzker says he wants to change Illinois’ flat tax to a graduated system, in which the highest earners are taxed at a higher rate than middle-class and low-income households. But he won’t say what the new rates should be. He says it should be negotiated with the Legislature.

Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner says Pritzker won’t answer the question because “the truth is so painful.” He says Pritzker “cannot be trusted” on taxes.

Pritzker says Rauner wants to keep an unfair tax system that benefits wealthy people like him.

Also participating in Thursday’s debate are Conservative Party candidate and GOP state Sen. Sam McCann and Libertarian Grayson “Kash” Jackson.

All four said they don’t support taxing services or retirement income.

6:30 a.m.

Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democrat J.B. Pritzker are meeting for their first debate of the Illinois governor’s race.

Rauner is trying to win a second term against Pritzker, a billionaire heir to the Hyatt hotel fortune who’s never held public office. Polls have shown Pritzker with a healthy lead.

Also participating in Thursday’s debate will be Conservative Party candidate and state Sen. Sam McCann and Libertarian Grayson “Kash” Jackson.

Pritzker has blasted Rauner, saying his insistence on pushing a pro-business, anti-union agenda led to a yearslong state budget impasse.

Rauner says Pritzker wants to raise taxes on Illinois residents. He’s also criticized Pritzker’s links to House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Thursday’s debate is sponsored by NBC 5, Telemundo, the Union League Club of Chicago and Chicago Urban League.

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