The Southern Standard and WCPI are holding two political forums this week and members of the public are encouraged to attend. Both forums will be held at Warren County Administrative Offices on Locust Street and start at 6:30 p.m.
The first date is Tuesday, July 8. At that time, candidates for Sheriff, County Executive, County Commission, Register of Deeds, and Superintendent of Roads are invited to speak.
The second forum is Thursday, July 10. At that time, candidates for School Board, General Sessions Judge, District Attorney and 43rd District State House are invited to speak.
Candidates will be given two to three minutes to speak, depending on the number of candidates in attendance. The Standard does not want the forums to exceed two hours. If time presents itself, candidates for county executive and district attorney can ask each other questions.
During the July 10 forum, election administrator Donna Smith will give a brief tutorial on the judicial retention elections on the Aug. 7 ballot.
There are six pages of retention questions voters are being asked to sift their way through. “We realize candidates try to get face-to-face contact with the voters, but often that’s difficult with everybody’s busy schedule,” said Standard publisher Patricia Zechman. “These forums are a great way for voters to connect with candidates on a more personal level. You can hear them address some of the key issues our community is facing.” Candidates will be given several minutes to discuss their views on the challenges Warren County is facing and their ideas for moving the community forward. The forums will be broadcast live on public radio WCPI 91.3 FM.
“Most voters want to make an informed decision when they go to the polls,” said Zechman. “These forums are a great way to further your knowledge on the candidates.” The political forums will be held in the county courtroom where there is ample seating.