Candidates need to show up to public forums

In an era of divisive politics and lack of trustworthy news, we need more opportunities to meet our candidates

A public forum on Oct. 6 in Bucksport, where some candidates did not show up. File photo.

Oct. 14, 2026

By Maggie Williams

Democracy depends on informed voters – voters who try to learn about the issues and the candidates who will represent them. I want my local legislative representative to uphold the ideals of democracy and be willing to show up in a public forum for the benefit of his or her constituents.

In this era of divisive politics and lack of trustworthy news, we need all the opportunities we can create in our communities to meet our candidates and become better informed voters. Candidate forums or debates have long been an accepted and respected way for voters to get to know the candidates and their views in person. Neutral formats with respected moderators create a safe and fair space for both candidates and voters to speak. Voters get to hear about candidates' views, their record, and how they plan to address the issues voters most care about. Voters are then better informed and more able to make decisions about whom to vote for. Public forums are a good opportunity for candidates to share their strengths, views, and vision for the future.

Why are all the Republican candidates this year refusing to participate in these public forums? (Editor’s note: Republican candidate for sheriff Corey Bagley will be appearing on Oct. 21 at a candidate’s forum at the Blue Hill Public Library alongside his Democrat opponent Dakota Dupuis).

Is it their strategy to avoid accountability for their votes? Lack of confidence in their agenda? A conciliation to their party? Basically, as a voter I feel it is a sign of disrespect for the voters of our towns to refuse to participate in the democratic process of public debate.

Thank you to those candidates who are willing to appear at town hall style events to meet with voters and explain their views.

-Maggie Williams is a resident of Penobscot.

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