As of Tuesday more than 700 people had already watched at least some of last Friday’s candidate forum put on by the Park County Republican Women. 

In 2022, more than 2,000 people watched at least some of that candidate forum. Hopefully, before voting starts, at least that many voters will have watched this one as well.  There weren’t any big fireworks, no shouting matches or gasp-worthy revelations, but forums like the one held at The Commons provide a great opportunity for voters to gain more understanding of area candidates. 

I’ll admit that initially I didn’t like giving up much of a nice Friday night to cover it, but by the end I was glad to have had the chance to listen to a variety of candidates, some I knew and some I didn’t. 

I do wish more than half of the Park County commissioners candidates had shown up, although I know one had a good reason to miss it as he was working out of state and for all I know the others did too. 

For our local state House and Senate races there was very good attendance, with both candidates for Senate District 18, House District 25 and House District 24 present to answer questions, as well as the incumbent from House District 50 (Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams) and candidates from some of the districts that don’t center on Park County but do represent some county voters. 

I appreciate all who showed up, as it shows candidates value the voters and are available to answer questions — a key feature of being a good representative of the people. 

For those who couldn’t come, please show up at all possible to the next event — the Tribune and Powell Economic Partnership are putting on a meet the candidates event June 26 from 5:30-7 p.m. also at The Commons, and I’m sure there will be forums in Cody, as well, as there always are. 

And thanks to the Park County Republican Women for making these forums such a tradition of campaign season, as it’s a valuable tool for the voters. To watch the candidate forum, go to facebook.com/ParkCountyGOPWomen.