Gates vs. Horner: Vision, Reform, and Tension on the Debate Stage

Hello Citizens,

The city’s political pulse quickened Saturday afternoon as mayoral candidates Chris Gates and Reginald P. Horner took to the stage in a heated public debate that drew a crowd of curious citizens, passionate critics, and a few hecklers for good measure.

Hosted in downtown Los Santos, the July 5th debate gave both candidates an opportunity to outline their vision for the city ahead of the upcoming election. From controversial police practices to tax reform, no topic was off-limits.

Opening Statements: Getting to Know the Candidates

Chris Gates introduced himself as a serial entrepreneur who’s brought numerous businesses to the city. He wants to make luxury items like homes and cars more accessible for everyone and believes in making the city a more fun and easy-going place to live. When he’s not running businesses, you’ll find him at DreamWorks, working on cars and helping others get back on the road.

Reginald P. Horner described himself as a decorated veteran with a Purple Heart, having spent many years serving the city as an officer. He takes pride in doing the tough, thankless jobs, like cleaning graffiti on his own time, to help reduce taxpayer costs. He’s committed to protecting and improving the city from the inside out and emphasizes his dedication to hands-on public service.

Question 1: It is a common concern among the citizens that fines in the penal code are seen as excessive. What is your opinion, and how do you plan to address this issue?

Chris Gates: “I definitely agree. There are fines that are way too high, especially for non-violent crimes. The punishments don’t match the severity, and it kills the fun for people. I plan on lowering both fines and consequences for nonviolent offenses.”

Reginald P. Horner: “This is something I hear a lot. You get hit with high taxes, then hit again with insane tickets. It’s too much for the common person. People don’t understand that struggle, but I do. I want to reduce the fines because the government takes your money and gives nothing back. That’s why I’m running, I’ve worked inside the system and know how to fix it.”

Question 2: There will always be tension between law enforcement agencies and the public. Do you have any plans to assist with this divide in the people?

Chris Gates: “I want to hold more events where civilians and officers can interact face-to-face. It’s not a perfect solution, but I believe just showing up and listening is the first step. I want to get them talking to each other more and building relationships.”

Reginald P. Horner: “We need sit-downs between leadership and citizens. As someone who’s been in law enforcement, I know the flaws firsthand. For example, K9 units can legally sniff your car without real cause. That’s wrong. We need bills in place to ensure proper oversight. I’ve even been penalized for helping a civilian while out of uniform, but I’d do it again, because that’s what serving people means.”

Question 3: How do you plan on ensuring the people’s voice is heard within congress?

Chris Gates: “I plan on holding regular community events, like the one I recently hosted at a rooftop lounge, where people can vote and share their thoughts. I want to do things like this every other weekend to stay in touch with what people want changed.”

Reginald P. Horner: “My slogan says it all: Get on the horn with Horner. Anyone will be able to reach me; email, phone, or in-person. Right now, our reps are nice but disconnected. I’ll be the one who actually listens, responds, and fights for you.”

Question 4: What are your top three policies that you wish to change if you become mayor?

Chris Gates: “My top three would be lowering fines, reducing car insurance costs, and cutting income taxes.”

Reginald P. Horner: “Hard to narrow it down to three, but.. tighter control over government departments, especially LSPD, and things like the canine unit. Open up regions to improve infrastructure. Fix the ridiculous 65mph city speed limit, it’s unsafe. And yes, like Gates said, taxes? Absolute joke.”

Question 5: Have you identified any economic issues, and do you plan on changing anything to do with the economy?

Chris Gates: “There are so many things to address, but right now my main focus is lowering taxes and making living here more affordable for everyone.”

Reginald P. Horner: “Everyone says ‘fix taxes’ but no one knows what that really means. I’ve lived in the dirt with the people. I wasn’t born on a rooftop with champagne, I was in the gutter cleaning with my hands. That’s why my hips hurt. Before I slash taxes, I want to understand the system completely, identify where it fails, and then push the right bills. Otherwise, you’re just another suit talking nonsense.”

Audience Questions

Red-Haired Woman

To Horner: “Where did you get your information that I, and former Mayor Sora, were corrupt?”

Horner: "Admittedly, I might’ve generalized. Some past mayors were removed from office or even assassinated, which raised red flags. If you were not corrupt, I apologize. That wasn’t my intention, you are a fantastic person."

Follow-up question: “What are you going to do about the K9 unit issue you mentioned?”

Horner: "The dogs currently don’t require probable cause, they can search just by wagging their f***ing tails. I propose a bill requiring documented probable cause before deploying K9s at traffic stops. There are relevant case studies and SOP's that support this."

To Gates: “Would you meet with criminals/homeless if they had good ideas to help the city?”

Gates: "Yes. If someone has a genuine, constructive plan that helps the city, I’d absolutely hear them out, even if it means some personal risk."

Man in Black Sweater & Sunglasses

To Horner: “What’s your economic plan for job creation? Gates has created jobs, what about you?”

Horner: "Mr. Gates is indeed a valuable contributor. But running businesses isn’t the same as running a city. I admit I didn’t dive into economic numbers here, but that’s because I want to understand the problems thoroughly before proposing solutions—not just make empty promises."

Man in Checkered Shirt

To Horner: “Why did you tell me to go f*** myself when I called 911?”*

Horner: "Because you asked a questionable question about VIN-scratched cars and may have been fishing for illegal advice. If that’s not the case, I apologize. But you and I clearly remember the call differently."

Man in Pink Jacket

To Gates: “How will your city-sponsored events help the economy?”

Gates: "They’ll foster unity between civilians and police, and provide safe spaces to share ideas. All food and drinks will be covered, and events will be funded through my own businesses—not taxes."

Follow-up: “There are rumors your businesses don’t pay workers—what’s your response?”

Gates: "I’ve never heard that directly, but if someone wasn’t paid, I’ll investigate it. I employ management teams across my businesses, so issues can slip through. We’ll fix it and make sure everyone gets what they’re owed."

Written by Lindsey Lula, Secretary to the Governor

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