MANSFIELD, Ohio – We’re deep into election season. The yard signs are out, and the door knocking that characterizes any local campaign has begun. Things are no different at Richland Source, which is why you are seeing this article within our seasonal Elections section. You’ll come here for all the news related to candidates, polling places, issues, and opinions regarding the coming election day on November 3.
Our editorial team headed up by Rhonda Bletner will be covering all aspects of the local races, with the highlight being Mansfield’s Mayoral Debate on October 20.
Debate Format
The format will be conversational. Rhonda and co-moderator Rusty Cates of iHeart Media and WMAN are working up questions that test the candidates beyond the political platitudes of an everyday stump speech. They intend to dig into the issues that most concern Mansfield and Richland County, and will look for what each candidate plans to do to deal with these issues. If you know Rhonda or Rusty at all, you can expect smart and insightful probes into the vision and platform of both Mayor Theaker and Dr. Abrams.
Qualifications
The qualification for making the debate stage was decided early in the planning process. There were two key requirements the committee looked for.
First, a candidate needed to have an opponent. Secondly, candidates need to have gone through the primary process and be the nominated choice of a particular party. Mayoral candidates that do not meet those qualifications won’t be part of the debate, but are naturally invited to attend and be part of the meet and greet reception afterward.
Interactivity
Audience members will have the chance to ask questions via a number of different methods, including social media and during the debate. We are also looking for suggested questions ahead of time.
If you have a question you would like to ask either candidate, e-mail it to news@richlandsource.com. We can’t guarantee anything, but we’ll consider everything.
Tickets and seating
The debate is free and open to the public, so an attendee can simply show up. However, demand for seating has been far beyond expectations and a capacity crowd is possible. You can take care of that pretty easily, however. Tickets may be reserved online, or by calling the Renaissance box office at 419-522-2726, Tuesday – Friday, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m
Sponsors
In addition to being hosted at the Renaissance Theater, the debate will be broadcast live on WMAN 1400 AM, while DRM Productions will record video which will be available on Richland Source and WMAN. The editorial teams at Richland Source and WMAN, as well as representatives from Richland Young Professionals and the Richland Area Chamber of Commerce will serve as debate moderators and volunteers.
