On Thursday evening I, along with about 80 other residents, attended the Portland Democratic Candidates Forum. Candidates for office were given two minutes to introduce themselves, and those running for City Council were asked individually to explain their positions on issues hotly debated in Portland: housing, gentrification, Fair Rent, paid sick leave, the school bond issue and our waterfront.

I was impressed with the dedication and qualifications of these candidates, and the organizers deserve kudos for putting together such an informative event. I don’t know why the Portland Press Herald chose not to cover it.

Margaret Wiley

Portland