The League of Women Voters legislative candidate forum will go on Tuesday night but without Legislator Manuel Esteban. And, as a result, his opponent won’t be on stage either.
His decision not to participate knocks his competitor, Democrat Rebecca Sanin, off the stage as well, under the League’s longstanding of “No empty chair” national policy that precludes one candidate for an office from appearing on stage unless the other appears as well.
Esteban instead will be at a fundraiser Tuesday evening in Huntington Station.
Candidates Jason Richberg and Richard Felix in the 15th District, Tom Donnelly and Catherine Corella in the 17th and Stephanie Bontempi and Dr. Eve Meltzer Krief in the 18th District are all scheduled to appear.
Sanin was targeted early in her campaign when Republicans attempted to knock her off the ballot, objecting to her petitions. A court upheld her use of them.
“Respectful debate is vital to restoring faith in government. That is why I was appalled to learn that Manny Esteban– after a failed attempt to run unopposed– is now cancelling debates,” Sanin said. “I will be at the League of Women’s Voters debate tonight after learning that Manny Esteban canceled his previously accepted invitation. I will always be accessible to residents.”
The forum is scheduled for 7-9 p.m. at the Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn.
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