Voters meet Republican candidates

Candidates and representatives from 11 local and state political races took the microphone at the Bradenton Country Club an open-mic night hosted by The Manatee Forum Republican Women Federated Tuesday.

About 80 people turned out to hear candidates share quickly about themselves and their platforms as well as  mingle with political hopefuls before and after the event.

“I think it went well,” said Pat Baker, forum president. “The biggest thing is look at the room at the end of the show. They’re still here.”

Attendees said they enjoyed hearing from the candidates in a relaxed atmosphere.

“It’s an opportunity to speak one-on-one (with them),” East County resident and attorney Paul Blucher said. “How often do voters get to do that?”

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].