UC Davis will host the four candidates vying for the 8th Assembly District in the March 2002 primary for a lunchtime "Brown Bag" Candidates Forum Wednesday, Feb. 20, from noon to 1:30 p.m., in the UC Davis Memorial Union Room II (MU II).

The format is moderated/timed question-and-answer, allowing each candidate to respond to up to five pre-determined questions, then written questions submitted from the audience will be asked. The event is open to the public

"Participation in the electoral process by learning the issues and interacting with candidates is extremely important," said Professor Walter Stone, chair of the Department of Political Science and faculty moderator for the forum. "I highly value this type of direct political discourse and am pleased to participate in this event."

With over 26,000 employees, UC Davis is the largest employer in the 8th Assembly District. More than 8,000 employees live in the district which includes the communities of Benicia, Davis, Dixon, Fairfield, Rio Vista, Suisun City, Vacaville, West Sacramento, Winters and Woodland.

Three Democrats are in the race including Steve Hardy from Vacaville, Lois Wolk from Davis, and Christopher Cabaldon from West Sacramento. One Republican, John Munn from Davis, is in the race and will face-off with the Democratic winner of the March primary in November. Davis resident Helen Thomson is vacating the seat due to term limits. All candidates have indicated they will attend the forum.

The event is co-sponsored by the UC Davis Staff Assembly, the Institute of Governmental Affairs, and the Office of Government and Community Relations.