Political Gumbo: About Those Forums

This is the piece I planned to run this past Monday, but I wanted to smooth it out and get my thoughts together. 

So here’s the skinny.

In my column a couple of weeks ago, I gave another publication respect for its take on political forums.

Let me clear that up. The point I agree with is if all candidates don’t show up it’s not a forum.

That’s it. 

As far as the other points addressing the professionalism and lack of organization regarding the forums, no I was not speaking or co-signing on that. 

Nor was I taking shots at James Farr.

Farr has spent his time, and yes money, putting two events together and I imagine that’s not easy to do.

And yes he has made efforts to get all candidates to appear.

Respect to that.

And consider this, to have to pivot in front of a room full of voters can’t be easy.

Same goes to the candidates that have decided to stand up and run for office.

It’s not easy being out front and scrutinized and re-scrutinized. 

It comes down to this.

People are making efforts to allow the candidates to appear before the public. Yes, the candidates should make every effort to appear.

If they don’t then what?

Hard questions.

And I’m not sure any of us have the best answer.

Either way March 5 can’t be here soon enough. 

Vote.