The forums are open only to the major party candidates on the Aug. 7 Contra Costa Council forum and the Aug. 11 Saint Mary’s College round-table because they are the only two parties with challengers in the Sept. 1 special primary.

As you probably know, this is a special primary, which means that all candidates regardless of party affiliation will appear on the same ballot. The top vote-getter in each party will advance to the Nov. 3 special general election.

Granted, the rules also say that if a candidate receives a majority of the vote in the primary, he or she will win the seat outright. But given the large number of Democrats (five) and Republicans (six) that is very unlikely to occur.

As a result, the three minor party candidates who have no primary challengers within their parties will advance to the Nov. 3 general election.

After the primary is over, the community groups will undoubtedly seek to hold forums with the candidates competing in the Nov. 3 election.

Though, is the August 7th forum only open to major party candidates?

If so, I think the article should have made more clear that some candidates were excluded.

Also, I hope that the councils will reconsider.

Third party candidates matter. Third party voters matter.

Thanks,
Kimberly Wilder