The League of Women Voters of Westchester announces that a proposed Candidate Forum for U.S. Congressional District 17 will not be held. Democratic Candidate Mondaire Jones stated that he is available for the proposed October 21, 2024 date at the Ossining Public Library. However, incumbent Congressman Michael Lawler, Republican candidate, would not commit to any date.
A candidates meeting with only one candidate present is an open or empty chair meeting, and is not permitted under League rules and its policy of nonpartisanship. The League regrets that this important educational event for voters has to be cancelled.
“This is a lost opportunity for the public to hear directly from candidates in person and to address their own questions to them,” stated Westchester County League President Kathy Meany. “We strive to run forums in a respectful, non-partisan environment that encourages civil discourse and allows candidates to communicate with the people they are seeking to represent. It is a disappointment that there will be no such in-person opportunity for voters residing in Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess Counties.”
