WATERVILLE — Gov. Paul LePage and gubernatorial candidates Eliot Cutler and U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud on Thursday will discuss economic and business issues in a forum hosted by Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce and Thomas College.
The forum, a prelude to the upcoming formal debates between the three candidates for the state’s highest office, will be held 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Laurette Ayotte Auditorium on the Thomas campus off West River Road and will follow a business breakfast.
The forum has been advertised as a forum “on the economic and business issues that matter to mid-Maine.”
Kimberly Lindlof, the chamber’s president and chief executive officer, said Monday that people may also just show up at the door, but pre-registration is preferred.
Thomas College President Laurie Lachance will moderate the forum, which will begin with opening statements from candidates, according to Lindlof, who served as financial director for the LePage for governor campaign.
A rapid-fire round will follow, with candidates being asked questions such as “What is your favorite food?” and “What kind of car do you drive?” Lindlof said.
Lachance then will ask questions written by the chamber’s public policy committee members and Thomas College, Lindlof said. The questions will have been given to the candidates in advance, she said.
The questions to be asked of LePage, Michaud and Cutler, will focus on workforce, education and business-related issues, she said.
Closing statements will follow.
The event, including the breakfast, is open to the public for $20 per person. Chamber members pay $17.
Those wanting to attend should register in advance by calling the chamber at 873-3315 or by emailing prog.asst@midmainechamber.com.
The forum is being held as part of the chamber’s monthly Business Breakfast Series, which hosts speakers who discuss topics related to business and education.
Lindlof said the chamber and Thomas partner on the breakfast series and every year the October breakfast is dedicated to a legislative or related issue.
She said she is pleased all three candidates will attend the forum.
Beth Gibbs, Thomas’ vice president for financial affairs, will be timekeeper for the event, Lindlof said.
Amy Calder — 861-9247
Twitter: @AmyCalder17
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