Candidates forum slated for UMaine at Machias

MACHIAS – Ten candidates for Congress are expected to participate in a political forum at the University of Maine at Machias next month.

The forum will take place at UMM’s Performing Arts Center from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, and will feature contenders for the 2nd District seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. John Baldacci. Baldacci is a Maine gubernatorial candidate in this year’s election.

Republicans who are expected to attend the forum include Kevin Raye, a former aide to U.S. Sen. Olympia Snowe; former state legislator Richard Campbell, who unsuccessfully challenged Baldacci in 2000; former Bangor Mayor Tim Woodcock; and Rep. Stavros Mendros of Lewiston.

Democratic candidates include former state legislator Sean Faircloth; state Senate President Pro Tempore Michael Michaud of East Millinocket; state Sen. John Nutting of Leeds; state Sen. Susan Longley of Liberty; David Costello, a former U.S. foreign assistance officer; and Lori Handrahan, an educator.

Most of the forum will be set aside for members of the public to question the candidates.

The moderator will be Patrick McCarthy, UMM associate professor of business studies.

The forum was planned by Jon Reisman, a UMM associate professor of economics and public policy. For information, call Reisman at 255-1242.