The race for Rockville City Council is gaining momentum, with candidate forums being among the most intriguing events. These forums provide an opportunity for each candidate to answer questions on various issues. While sometimes referred to as “debates,” they rarely involve direct exchanges between candidates or in-depth discussions. However, they do provide a platform for comparing candidates and understanding their stances. Their responses may be rough and awkward at times, yet this rawness often provides more insight into their true beliefs and intentions, unlike the polished and often vague statements we typically hear from elected officials in Congress.

The City of Rockville has selected the candidate forums that will be broadcast on Rockville 11 and YouTube, but everyone is welcome to attend in person:

The hosting organization determines the format and questions, and obviously, each has a different interest so the topics will vary among the forums.

Other community organizations and neighborhood associations will host their own forums. Usually everyone is welcome and some will be broadcast, so look for announcements on a candidate’s or organization’s web sites or social media pages.

There are currently two candidates for mayor and nine candidates for council. If you are interested in serving, there is still time to get on the ballot. Petitions need to be signed by as least 100 registered voters who live in Rockville and submitted by this Friday, September 8. More details at Running for Office on the City web site.

Starting today until Election Day, I will close comments on this blog. Unfortunately, elections can bring out the worst in people and the blog comments become a place for slinging mud and venom. Question every fact and assertion from candidates, expect the stealing of yard signs, and know that impersonators will lurk on social media. Yes, in Rockville. Sigh.