Candidates Criticized for Skipping Local Election Forums

Black and Latino community leaders say no-shows send a troubling message to voters.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:04pm

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A quiet, cinematic painting of an empty podium on a dimly lit stage, bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conceptually illustrating the missed opportunity when political candidates fail to show up and engage with their constituents.The absence of candidates at local election forums raises concerns about their commitment to engaging with the community.Columbus Today

Several candidates running for city council and mayor in Columbus, Georgia have been criticized for declining to attend local election forums hosted by The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper and Davis Broadcasting. Community leaders say the absences, especially in predominantly Black and Latino districts, are unacceptable and send a troubling message to voters.

Why it matters

Candidate forums are seen as crucial opportunities for voters, especially in communities of color, to directly engage with those seeking to represent them. By skipping these events, some candidates are being accused of disinterest in addressing the concerns of their constituents.

The details

Invitations to the forums were extended in January, but several candidates cited scheduling conflicts or other priorities when declining to attend. Karen Gaskins, running for District 7 (a predominantly Black district), Charmaine Crabb, the District 5 councilor, and mayoral candidate Joanne Cogle all chose not to participate. The Courier and Davis Broadcasting say the absences, especially Cogle's late response citing another event, signal a lack of commitment to engaging directly with the community.

  • Invitations to the forums were extended in January.
  • The forums were held in late March and early April, just weeks before the May 19 election.

The players

The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper

A trusted source of news and information for the Black and Latino communities in Columbus, Georgia, partnering with Davis Broadcasting, Inc. to host the candidate forums.

Karen Gaskins

Candidate for Columbus City Council District 7, a predominantly Black district.

Charmaine Crabb

Incumbent Columbus City Council member for District 5.

Joanne Cogle

Candidate for Mayor of Columbus, Georgia.

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What’s next

The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper and Davis Broadcasting say they will continue to hold candidates accountable and ensure the community's voice is heard in the lead-up to the May 19 election.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the importance of political candidates engaging directly with the communities they seek to represent, especially in diverse areas. Skipping forums and avoiding tough questions sends a troubling message that could impact voter turnout and trust in local leadership.