Victor Murray, Lawrenceville
To the editor:
When asked to attend a debate of the issues some feel so empowered as incumbents that they feel it is unnecessary to participate in debates and that their track record speaks for itself. Others are afraid to debate as it might shed light on their shortcomings, and that the prospect of portraying possible incompetence might be discovered.
Fortunately there is an alternative to debates as the League of Women Voters offers, and has successfully conducted, many nonpartisan forums for the benefit of both candidates and voters of Lawrence Township.
I believe that all four candidates are well qualified and have the best interests of the Lawrence Township Board of Education at heart by their very willingness to run for such a daunting and noble assignment. And at a forum, which is "a place, meeting or medium where an exchange of ideas and views on a particular issue can be exchanged." they will find a far more congenial atmosphere than what occurs at a debate.
The invitation to present oneself in an a political forum should dispel any doubts and provide a great opportunity for all candidates to portray their greatest aspirations for the position being sought. For the voting public, a forum can provide realistic expectations as to what might occur should a particular candidate be elected. Such is the wonderful opportunity afforded all whenever the League of Women Voters invites candidates to come before voters to present themselves alongside the other candidates in an exchange of ideas and views.
The League of Women Voters has successfully conducted these forums in a way which benefits both candidate and the voting public. Hopefully the candidates will reconsider the forum venue and this will not be the first time in many years that candidates will decline to appear before the public.
Victor Murray
Lawrenceville

