May 25: Lt. Governor Candidates for June 13th Primary at Forum and Poll at First Baptist

NORFOLK
Three persons, each hoping to become the Democratic choice for Virginia’s next Lieutenant Governor, will be featured in a forum and straw poll at the Murray Banquet Center in downtown Norfolk on May 25 starting at 6 p.m.

Three weeks later, on June 13th, voters in Hampton Roads and around the state will go to the polls for a primary to select one of them to face off against the Republican candidate in November.

The forum is being called by the Political  Action Ministry of the Historic First Baptist Church Bute Street, and supported by several community groups. They include The League of Women Voters of South Hampton Roads, Norfolk NAACP, The New Journal and Guide, Norfolk Federation of Teachers and Urban League of Hampton Roads Young Professionals.

On June 13th both Democratic and Republican voters will choose their candidates for not only the Lieutenant Governor, but also for Governor and Attorney General.

The moderator for the First Baptist forum will be Dr. Quentin Kidd, Vice Provost and Director of the Wason Center for Public Policy at Christopher Newport University in Newport News.
The three candidates will be fielding questions on various issues from the audience during the event.

“We want to keep the people informed. First Baptist Church has a mission to serve the public and this is a good example of it,” said Yvonne Leonard, Chair of the Church’s Political Action Ministry.

Leonard said invitations were extended to both Democratic and Republican candidates running for the office; however, only the three Democratic candidates responded and agreed to participate.

“This non partisan effort to educate the public is designed to help the voters make thoughtful decisions come decision day,” she said.

Persons attending the forum will be able to vote in a “straw poll,” selecting one of the persons whose name will be announced at the end of the event.

According to Leonard, candidates competing in other  races during the June 13th primary are invited to the event. Although they will not participate in the forum, they will be allowed to meet the public and hand out their campaign literature.

She said if there is time they may be able to address the audience after the exchange by the featured candidates and during the straw poll.

“The voters need to know the candidates.  They need to be educated about who these people are and their stands on the issues,” said Leonard. “This is an important  opportunity for the public to be educated about the candidates and their stand on the issues.”

For more information, call (757) 828-6275.