Two forums were planned for last Sunday at Chesapeake College for Democratic and Republican candidates running in this year’s primary elections for the U.S. House of Representatives in Maryland’s 1st congressional district. The Forum was sponsored by the Spy in partnership with the Eastern Shore chapters of the League of Women Voters, WHCP-FM, the APG-Star Democrat.
Sadly, only one of them actually took place. On the Democratic side, the planned discussion had to be canceled because Blessing T. Oluwadare did not appear for the forum. According to LWV policy, a forum with only one candidate is not permitted.
The Republican forum did take place, but it, too, was not ideal. The current incumbent, Congressman Andy Harris, could not attend due to a conflict in his schedule. Nonetheless, candidates Chris Bruneau and Michael Lemon exchanged policy positions moderated by Glenna Heckathorn, the co-president of the League of Women Voters of the Mid-Shore, on a host of issues ranging from Ukraine, Israel, abortion, environmental quality of the Bay, the Key Bridge, and the winner of the 2020 presidential election.
This video is approximately one hour in length.
Brenda Meier says
Please tell us which Democratic candidate did not show up. Many thanks.
Marg iovino says
Which dem candidate didn’t show ip
Brad Dyer says
Someone told me that Andy Harris didn’t come to the forum because his polls are telling him he’s in the lead and there’s no need to debate. Did anyone fact check whether he actually had a prior engagement? It frustrates me that career politicians like Andy think they’re entitled to keep their jobs when the people get to make that decision.
Michael Estrella says
So, Andy votes to support Russia, China, and Iran instead of our allies in Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel and then he does a No-Show on the debates for the upcoming primary election….we deserve better than this. We deserve a REAL member of congress that reflects our values, not some Putin admirer! It is long past time for Andy Harris to GO!
Brad Dyer says
Did you know that Andy has not responded to a Candidate debate forum invitation being held on 4/30 at the Easton Fire Department at 6:30 pm? I’m told that Chris Bruneau & M. Lemon will be there. I think Andy is terrified to debate, because all he knows is to recap the National News, and never has anything to say about the 1st District of MD. Andy focuses 99% of his energy on getting re-elected, and is totally absent and out of touch from the people in his district. Please attend the 4/30 forum, I want to talk with you.
Joann Harrold says
Andy Harris is not present here in Maryland to debate..because he is in Hungary with Victor Orban at the CPAC meeting proclaiming his admiration for Orban’s authoritarian government.