In 2018, the League of Women Voters of Illinois changed its policy to permit “Empty Chair” Candidate Forums for State Legislative, County, Township and Local Offices.

This month, the state League reverted to previous policy and effective immediately, in the context of a primary, at least two opposing candidates for the same political party nomination must agree to participate or the forum will not take place.

As a local League we are bound to comply to this guidance.

It is with great regret that we cancel the Candidate Forum scheduled for February 4.

The LWV of the Elgin Area Rutland-Dundee Townships Committee cordially invites you to participate in a moderated Candidate Forum for the candidates running in the March General Primary Election.

During the first half-hour, voters will have the opportunity to talk informally to the candidates in a “Meet and Greet” before the Forum begins promptly at 7 pm.

Candidates for the following contested races have been invited to participate:

6th Congressional*

Republican Primary:

• Jeanne Ives
• Gordon (Jay) Kinzler

Democratic Primary: Uncontested (Sean Casten will be on November ballot)

Illinois Senate District 22

Democratic Primary:

• Cristina Castro
• Rae Yawer

Republican Primary: Uncontested

Illinois Legislative District 66:

Democratic Primary:

• Suzanne Ness
• Jim Malone

Republican Primary:

• Allen Skillicorn
• Carolyn Schofield

*  Candidates will be allowed to participate even if their opponents do not attend except for federal offices, which must have at least two candidates present to participate.

The Primary Election is March 17^th; Early Voting begins March 3^rd

Candidate Forum – Rules & Guidelines

The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan, issue-oriented political organization that holds voter education as a primary mission. This is why the League sponsors forums such as this. We must abide by certain rules to respect the impartiality of the organization and the event. We do not endorse or recommend candidates for office and we are neutral with regard to the candidates who are the focus of this forum. Filming, other than by the League or its partners is not allowed.

• The League is not responsible for the accuracy of statements made by the candidates.
• The candidates will be requested to address a specific question(s) in their opening remarks.
• Audience questions will be written and collected by League members. Questions are to address issues, not personalities. The League reserves the right to screen questions.
• Please write only one question per card, and there may not be time for all questions.
• Time limits for candidate responses will be enforced.
• No campaign buttons or the like will be allowed in the forum.
• Audience will remain silent and in their seats during the forum.
• Audience will not be permitted to respond in any audible way to the candidates.