The nonpartisan League of Women Voters of Idaho is partnering with community groups to bring two public candidate forums to Idaho voters. The events are designed to let residents hear directly from those seeking the state’s U.S. Senate seat and the governor’s office, and to ask questions submitted by the audience.
Senate forum in Caldwell
On September 30, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., the Caldwell City Council chambers at Caldwell City Hall (205 S. Sixth Avenue) will host a Senate candidate forum. Independent candidates Todd Achilles and Natalie Fleming, along with Libertarian candidate Matt Loesby, have confirmed their participation. Incumbent Republican U.S. Senator Jim Risch has not responded to the League’s invitation, according to a press release issued on September 24.
Governor forum in Boise
The gubernatorial forum will be held on October 6, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., in the auditorium of South Junior High School (3101 W. Cassia St., Boise). Independent candidate John Stegner and Democratic candidate Terri Pickens will be on the panel. Incumbent Republican Governor Brad Little also did not respond to the invitation.
How the forums will work
Each forum will be moderated by a local volunteer who will pose questions written by audience members. The League says the format encourages side‑by‑side comparison of candidates’ views on public policy, helping voters make informed choices before the November election.
Community partners
Co‑sponsors include the Caldwell Chamber of Commerce, the College of Idaho, and the local American Association of University Women. Elinor Chehey, vice president of the League of Women Voters of Idaho, said, “We are pleased to join other nonpartisan co‑sponsors in hosting these important events. This is a chance for voters to hear candidates, side‑by‑side, describe their views on public policy.”
Additional resources
Voters can find more information about the candidates and upcoming events on the League’s online voter guide, VOTE411.org. The forums are open to the public and free of charge.
Idaho Capital Sun, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and donors, reports that the League maintains editorial independence while providing these civic‑engagement opportunities.
Original reporting: Idaho Education News — read the source article.
