Health care questions dominate in AARP candidates’ forum

Health care issues dominated the discussion as potential voters in a highly competitive legislative district heard both candidates present their positions in a forum conducted by AARP Virginia. Recent history suggests this contest could be among the closest General Assembly races statewide.

The 41st House of Delegates District covers portions of Montgomery and Roanoke counties, and the race in this district two years ago was decided by 183 votes. Republican Chris Obenshain defeated Democrat Lily Franklin in that contest, and now the two are squaring off once again. The winner this year may determine which party controls the House side of Virginia’s General Assembly.

The community forum in late September came as local airwaves have been flooded with campaign commercials for both candidates. Forum moderator Bob Denton said events like this provide important opportunities to get past the negative ads and to see and hear from candidates in person.

The candidates answered questions about their views on proposed legislation to lower prescription drug prices, require employers to provide paid family and medical leave, Medicaid and nursing home regulations, among others.

AARP Virginia’s New River Valley Chapter hosted the forum at the Blacksburg Community Center, and Chapter Co-Vice President John Burton said he was pleased to see the room filled as Obenshain and Franklin answered questions.

“It's an important race, and District 41 really covers a great deal of our footprint, our NRV footprint, and it's part of our role to provide not just volunteers and help, but education to the community," he said.

The community forum is one of many that AARP Virginia has conducted over decades in efforts to help its members — and others — have the information they need when casting their ballots.

 “Forums like these are a great opportunity for our members to hear where their candidates stand on the issues that matter most to Virginians over 50, and to ask them questions about issues that impact their communities,” said Jared Calfee, AARP Virginia associate state director of advocacy and outreach. “Ensuring that voters are knowledgeable on the candidates is especially important in places like House District 41, which is expected to be one of the most competitive races in the state.”


 

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