Why are only three candidates participating in the June 4 candidates forum?
We want to thank those who have expressed their concerns over the format of our upcoming candidates forum. When we began planning for a Democratic candidates forum, we decided, given the large number of declared candidates and those exploring candidacy, that to have more than a few participants would not be feasible given the time and logistical constraints of our Pentecost event. In order to host a forum that provided enough time for a thoughtful and substantive discussion of faith and values with religious leaders (rather than sound bites and widely known positions as will be the case in numerous other forums and debates), we decided to invite the declared Democratic candidates occupying the top polling positions. While it is difficult to limit participation, we needed to set objective criteria allowing us to plan and execute a forum that could be unique and successful; a conversation providing a deeper look at faith and public life. This fall, we are planning to sponsor a similar ca
