By Allison Peck
Listen to the full interview on our Kubota Podcast
Independent candidates seeking federal, state and local offices will gather Monday evening for a public town hall at the Historic Fox Theatre in North Platte.
Community organizer Beth DeFreese discussed the event during a recent interview with Paxton Gordon, encouraging residents from North Platte and surrounding communities to attend.
"We want to invite you all to come to the Historic Fox Theatre on June 1," DeFreese said. "It's a Monday next Monday at 6 p.m."
The event will feature independent candidates Dan Osborn, who is running for U.S. Senate, Mark Cohon and Macy Budke, who are seeking Nebraska's 3rd Congressional District seat, and Shaley Scranton, who is running for the Nebraska Legislature.
According to DeFreese, the forum is designed to help voters become informed about the candidates and their positions before the November election.
"The format will be that each candidate has a half hour and they can tell their platform and voters can get informed before they vote on the issues," she said. "They will have the opportunity to submit questions that will be asked."
DeFreese said the event offers attendees a chance to get to know candidates beyond campaign advertisements and social media.
"It's a good time, like you said, to get to know the candidates personally," she said. "You feel like you have a relationship, you have an understanding of what they stand for."
Gordon noted that many voters often feel disconnected from the political process and said events like the town hall can help bridge that gap by giving residents direct access to those seeking office.
DeFreese agreed, saying many people are frustrated with government and looking for opportunities to become more engaged.
"It's no secret that people are disgruntled with government right now and feeling a little disoriented," she said. "This will hopefully get them back on track and make them feel like they're a part of the democratic process."
The town hall is open to the public regardless of political affiliation.
"We'd gladly have everyone, regardless of party affiliations, come down and get educated about what the independents have to say about what they envision for our government moving forward," DeFreese said.
Admission is free. DeFreese noted that the Historic Fox Theatre concession stand will be open during the event for attendees who wish to purchase refreshments.
The Independent Candidates Town Hall begins at 6 p.m. Monday, June 1, at the Historic Fox Theatre in North Platte.