LETTER: Tharinger, Chapman

I attended a virtual forum for candidates for State Representative, Position 1, sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Clallam County.

Incumbent Mike Chapman was the only candidate who participated.

Republican Sue Forde apparently canceled the day before, and Republican Daniel Svoboda, who had confirmed ahead of time, simply didn’t show up.

Chapman very willingly answered questions from the audience of about two dozen people for an hour.

The League of Women Voters was to have sponsored another forum next week for candidates for State Rep, Position 2.

Although incumbent Steve Tharinger readily confirmed his attendance, Republican Brian Pruiett declined.

So that forum will not take place.

As far as I know, these forums were the only opportunity for voters in the 24th legislative district to ask questions of the candidates before the primary election on Tuesday.

I have to wonder why these Republican candidates are unwilling to face the voters, even in the pandemic-safe environment of a virtual forum.

Perhaps they find the prospect of open public dialog too intimidating.

Vote for Steve Tharinger and Mike Chapman for State Representative, Positions 1 and 2.

They have proven themselves to be hard-working advocates for the 24th, and unlike their opponents, they make a point of being available to their voters.

Paula Barnes

Sequim