MADELINE ISLAND NEWS AND INFORMATION
2009 CANDIDATES FORUM BY MICHAEL CHILDERS
Thanks for the e-mail. Yes, I have been asked to
moderate the candidate's forum for this year's spring election and am
very much looking forward to the event.
As to ground rules for the event - it is my intention to provide each of
the candidates an opportunity to present their case to the public,
basically declaring why they are seeking office, addressing the issues
that they perceive to be important to fulfilling that responsibility.
This "opening statement" would be open ended with each candidate
speaking as they chose - current thinking is that 5 minutes each should
be ample - but should the candidates desire more time - I would imagine
that would be possible.
After opening statements - questions from the audience will be
entertained - it is hard to image what, if any, questions that relate to
the office and the issues that the candidates will be required to
confront might be "off limits". The ability of each candidate to respond
to questions, however difficult, is part of the way in which the public
determines whom to support. I would hope that questions will be
presented respectfully and with appreciation for the humanity of each
participant.
Questions can be directed to individuals. More than one question will be
allowed from each questioner, but in the interest of fairness and
providing each attendee the opportunity to question, we might follow a
round robin approach. The goal is to provide all attendees the chance
to investigate their individual area of interest.
After questions, each candidate will be allowed an opportunity to
provide "closing remarks" which would summarize their positions, clarify
their points of view, even on questions that were asked of other
candidates. Current thinking is that this might also be a 5 minute
closing for each candidate.
As to cameras and recording devices - my instinct is that yes, such
devices are acceptable - but they should be open and obvious - declared
to exist - and for what organization or purpose.
My hope is that each candidate and members of the
public will work within such a frame, but should other ideas as to
format arise, I will be happy to consider those options.
Thanks for your inquiry.
Michael
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