Meet the Candidates Event at Seekonk Public Library

Seekonk Public Library will give voters an opportunity to meet the people running for office in Seekonk at a Meet the Candidates event on Saturday, March 30 from 9:30 to 11:30 AM. The library emailed invitations to all candidates for local office, and has received positive responses from many, including candidates for the Board of Selectmen and the School Committee. Several candidates for other elected boards will also be attending.

The invitation describes the event as a two-hour gathering for political conversation along with coffee and pastry. Each candidate who has signed-up to attend will have the opportunity to make brief remarks to the voters from the podium and then take questions as time allows. The invitation sent to the candidates stressed that the event is not a debate. The instructions from the library ask the candidates “focus on your qualities, qualifications, accomplishments and aspirations, and not on any perceived shortcomings of other candidates.” Candidates will have an opportunity to speak directly with voters at the conclusion of the speaking program. The refreshments are being provided with money donated by the Friends of the Seekonk Library.

This is the second year for Meet the Candidates. Library Director Fuller said the library is sponsoring the event again because of the highly favorable feedback from the event last year. Mr. Fuller also noted that supporting informed political discussion is part of the core mission of the public library. Hosting Meet the Candidates on March 30 is one way of filling that important role. The library is a politically neutral, public space that is available to everyone, he said, and I can think of no better site to hold such an event.

Voters may obtain additional information about this event by calling the Seekonk Public Library at (508) 336-8230.