Voices of Franklin: Why Are We Losing Candidates Night?

For the first time in recent memory, Franklin will not be holding a Candidates Night—and I have to ask, why?

This year, nine new candidates are running for Town Council, myself included. That's unprecedented. Candidates Night has long been a cornerstone of our democratic process, offering residents a chance to hear directly from those seeking to represent them. It was more than just a forum—it was a live, in-person opportunity for dialogue, challenge, and connection. it's a place where people are heard all at once making it easier for the community to hear. Because technically everyone can spend time watching people's interviews etc., but that's very time consuming. This is centrally located for residents to be a part of.

Incumbents have the benefit of visibility through their votes and public meetings. Their positions are known. But for new candidates, our values, priorities, and perspectives are not yet familiar to many residents. Candidates Night was the one venue where everyone—new and incumbent—stood on equal ground, answering the same questions, engaging with the same audience. It was a chance for voters to compare, reflect, and decide.

While I appreciate the Observer's published Q&A and the video interviews by Franklin Matters—both excellent resources—they cannot replace the energy and accessibility of a live forum. Candidates Night was a shared experience, a civic ritual that brought us together in real time. Its absence this year is deeply disappointing.

I participated in Candidates Night in 2021 when I first ran for Town Council. It was an experience that shaped me, and I believe every candidate deserves that same opportunity—especially in a year with so many new voices stepping forward.

I'll be attending the Meet & Greet this Wednesday night at Teddy Gallagher's because I believe residents deserve the chance to speak with us face-to-face. I hope all candidates will come—not just for the voters, but for each other. After all, nine of us will be working together come November. We owe it to the town, and to each other, to begin that relationship with openness and respect.

Let's not lose the traditions that connect us. Let's restore the spaces that allow every voice to be heard.

Sincerely,  

Jane Callaway-Tripp  

Candidate for Franklin Town Council

* Editor's note: There was no candidate forum in 2023 either. 15 Candidates for Town Council in 2025 is a record. There were 14 in 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2015.

If you have something to say, you can find the guidelines here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html

Voices of Franklin: Why Are We Losing Candidates Night?