A Democratic Candidates for Governor Forum will be held April 25, 5 to 7 p.m., at Watts Hall, Thomaston, Maine. Although the in-person event at Watts Hall has sold out, a livestream will be available via a link from the Knox County Democratic Committee website at knoxmainedemocrats.org, as well as a post-event video recording. 

Sponsored jointly by the Knox and Lincoln County Democratic Committees, the forum will provide an opportunity for voters to hear directly from the candidates and to learn about their priorities, experience, and vision for Maine’s future.

Candidates whose participation is confirmed are Shenna Bellows, Troy Jackson, Angus King III, Hannah Pingree and Nirav Shah.

The forum will be moderated by Midcoast Villager Deputy Editor Alex Seitz-Wald and include opening remarks from the candidates, moderated questions, and opportunities for audience-submitted questions. Topics will include the economy, healthcare, education, housing, environmental stewardship, and other issues of statewide (and national) importance. Attendees are to leave better informed before the June primary election.

"As ourfederal protections are eroded or even eliminated, it is a state’s Governor who, as part of their role  as Chief Executive, often becomes a primary defender of our rights. Governors can sign laws, issue executive orders, and direct state agencies in ways that either expand or restrict freedoms—so their role becomes more visible and consequential," said Forum organizers, in an April 17 news release.

About the committees

"The Knox County Democratic Committee is an association that promotes the ideals and principles of the Democratic Party; encourages and maintains participation and unity of enrolled voters and potential candidates in Knox County, Maine; provides leadership to, and coordination with, Municipal Committees, the Maine Democratic State Committee and the Democratic National Committee; and supports the nominees elected in the State Democratic Primary and their election to office," the release said.

"The purpose of the Lincoln County Democratic Committee organization shall be to promote the ideals, principles and philosophy we share as Democrats. The nomination and election of candidates who advocate these ideals and principles are of utmost importance if our government is to continue to function effectively, democratically and as a government of and for all the people," the release said.