Vancouver resident Kris Greene continues his conversation with League of Women Voters of Clark County officials over their recent decision regarding a candidate’s participation in a forum

I appreciate the League of Women Voters of Clark County responding to my concerns, but their explanation leaves me deeply unsatisfied. Their claim that they “cannot and will not do anything that advances one candidate over another” is problematic.

A candidate forum’s purpose is to provide voters with a platform to learn about the candidates and their positions. If an incumbent drops out citing a work conflict, it is not the League’s responsibility to enable this evasion of public scrutiny. This move effectively sabotages the democratic process, leaving only one candidate to present their views unchallenged.

The League’s definition of a forum should prioritize transparency and the voters’ right to make informed decisions. Allowing a candidate to back out due to vague conflicts undermines this ideal. Voters deserve more than empty seats and unanswered questions.

In the interest of fair elections, the League should reconsider their stance. If a candidate is scared to answer questions or face their opponent, it raises serious doubts about their suitability for office. Voters have the right to see how candidates handle the spotlight and respond to public scrutiny.

Kris Greene
Vancouver

---

Also read:

• 
  Opinion: Transit agencies need accountability not increased state subsidy
  Charles Prestrud argues that Washington transit agencies face rising costs and declining ridership due to governance structures that lack public accountability.
• 
  Letter: ‘For years, American foreign policy too often felt like a blank check’
  Vancouver resident Peter Bracchi argues that the 2025 National Security Strategy marks a long-overdue shift toward clearer priorities, shared responsibility, and interest-based American leadership.
• 
  POLL: Are you better off than you were a year ago?
  This week’s poll asks readers to reflect on their personal financial situation and whether they feel better off than they were a year ago as economic conditions continue to shift.
• 
  Opinion: Does tailgating cause speeding?
  Target Zero Manager Doug Dahl examines whether tailgating contributes to speeding and explains why following too closely increases crash risk with little benefit.
• 
  Opinion: ‘The Democrats’ part of the bargain’
  Clark County Today Editor Ken Vance reflects on a New Year’s Eve encounter and a Bill Maher commentary to assess what he sees as cultural and political changes from the past year.