The League of Women Voters of Richardson (LWV-R) and the Richardson ISD Council of PTAs planned to co-sponsor forums for candidates running for Texas House Districts (HD) 102 and 112 in the November election.

The Republican incumbents (Linda Koop in HD 102; Angie Chen Button in HD 112) declined to participate. Both Democratic challengers (Ana-Maria Ramos in HD 102; Brandy Chambers in HD 112) accepted.

A follow-up email was sent August 17, 2018, to both incumbents offering to reschedule at their convenience. LWV-R has not received a reply from Representative Koop. Representative Button again declined.

The League’s long-standing policy states that at least two candidates for an office must be present to proceed with a forum. Without participation from the incumbents, there would only be one candidate participating in each forum and the League would be required to cancel the forums.

The League expects candidates to participate in nonpartisan public forums so voters have an opportunity to question the candidates. We strongly urge the incumbents to reconsider.