The impact of the pandemic can be felt in nearly every aspect of what was previously called our “normal” lives, including the way we prepare for and participate in the upcoming election. There is a tradition of bringing the candidates to the voters at the Carroll Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forums, but this year, constituents will have to plan ahead to get their questions answered and then participate from a remote location. Chamber Program Director, Ashley Schable, says they are pleased they are able to offer the candidates a chance to have their voices heard.
A moderator will be with the social-distancing candidates at the Carroll City Hall Council Chambers. The event will be viewable via Carroll’s local access cable channel, CAAT 6, and aired live by Carroll Broadcasting beginning at 7 p.m. on Sept. 30. Schable says they are also working on more digital options.
At the county level, there are no contested races, but candidates will have the opportunity to address the voters. This includes those running for supervisor seats—incumbents Republican Richard Ruggles and Democrat Gene Meiners as well as Republican Scott Johnson. The other candidates on the Nov. 3 ballot include Republican incumbents, Treasurer, Lisa Wagner, and Sheriff, Ken Pingrey, along with Democratic incumbent Auditor, Kourtney Irlbeck.
On the state level, there are five candidates vying for seats at the Senate and Iowa House who will be providing brief opening and closing statements and answering questions submitted by the public. Republican Craig Williams and Democrat C.J. Petersen are facing off for Senate District 6 and 12th District House Republican incumbent, Brian Best, is being challenged by Democrat Sam Muhr and Libertarian Blake Johannes. Shable says all have been invited, but one has yet to confirm.
The date for this event is about one week early this year to accommodate the candidate’s schedules. Details on how to submit questions prior to the forum can be found below.
Email questions to chamber@carrolliowa.com by Friday, Sept. 25
