Democratic voters take opportunity to get informed at candidate forum
'This is a local race, and these are people that are in our community, and it's important that they interact with the community as much as they can, and of course, this is a great opportunity for them to do so,' said Sam Talarico, event moderator and Erie County Democratic Party chair.
Candidates in four different city and council races took the stage during the event — Erie City Council, county council, City of Erie Mayor and the county executive.
After introducing themselves, the candidates were randomly asked three different questions and were given two minutes to answer.
Several local Republicans kick off campaigns Tuesday night
There was a packed room of citizens at the Maennerchor Club looking to get to know who's on the ballot a little better and be an active citizen when it comes to politics.
'You said it right yourself, be an active citizen. You know, we don't get into this thing by ourselves. We cannot do it by ourselves. We're supposed to be a united nation, you know, all together working for a good cause,' said Tim Driscoll, a Harborcreek voter.
For voters, the forum was a way to get more informed of all the candidates on the May ballot.
And for the candidates, the event was a way to get in front of the community and appeal to those voters.
PA senator advocating for open primaries for independents
'It's important because your voting base and your community needs to know who you are and what you stand for, and if you're not willing to face them, then how can you be a good elected official?' said Jasmine Flores, Erie City Council candidate and incumbent.
Voters will nominate their candidates in the upcoming primary election on May 20.
If you missed Monday night's forum, Erie County United will be hosting a similar event on Saturday, March 29 from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m. at the Booker T Washington Center on Holland Street.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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