The capacity crowd of approximately 250 was involved, interested, and informed, at the League of Women Voters of Central Kane County’s forum Thursday, Feb. 22 at the Batavia Government Center’s City Council Chambers.
Many in the crowd roared approval at an answer about the hot topic of guns early in the first of two discussions. The crowd quickly was admonished not to offer cheering to answers. Partisanship was not acceptable, according to moderator Nancy Russo. No cheering. The crowd reacted respectfully the rest of the evening.
The democratic process of primary elections will be observed March 20 with candidates in many circumstances seeking to receive enough votes to continue in the general election Tuesday, Nov. 6.
The first panel last week included four candidates for either the 49th State Senate or the 65th State Senate, Republicans and Democrats. Their backgrounds are as activist, social worker, teacher, attorney, and civic planner, however, united in neophyte elected public official. See photo on page 1.
Karina Villa, Nic Zito, Daniel Johnson, and Dan Ugaste, took questions from the audience. None significantly made a visible separation in quality from the other candidates. Potential voters will watch the next two-plus weeks to make decisions. The interest level was encouraging from the audience.
The second panel consisted of six Democratic Party members who seek the nomination to run against incumbent Randy Hultgren in the hour-glass shaped 14th Congressional District race. Mr. Hultgren did not attend because he has no opponent in the primary election. He advances directly to November 6. There will be other forums for other offices throughout the State. Political interest could be elevated with the various issues which have been discussed in recent months. It is a good thing.