Don't need to go or even read about it - it will be a debate on who can be the most 'progressive'.

In two hours with 13 candidates there will be no debate. Time needed for opening and closing statements plus the answers to two questions uses almost all the time available.

Can people attend and participate with questions online? Covid (and other viruses) are picking up again.

I’m glad this forum will happen. It’s needed.
And Gennady’s a good questioner.

Lot of good people, but Joe Similitian is the only one with the kind of experience to fill Eshoo’s shoes and can be a public servant for everyone. Truth be told, I’ve voted for her every time but Eshoo should have retired awhile ago.

Aren't 501c3 organizations prohibited by the IRS regarding politics?

Joe is the only candidate who will hit the ground running. The other candidates could serve us well at either the State level where they would gain legislative experience, or for newbies run for either their local council or for county supervisor. Only children think life is simple.

How about a real debate between the two candidates for Assembly -- Berman and Kou -- since the two of have the time to answer questions and debate the issues?

Article says 11 candidates are running, and 10 are listed as being at the event. Is one not appearing? And are there others running who have been deemed not "qualified" to appear at this event?

Hi all. Thanks for the questions about the candidates' forum. To respond, we are working with the Midpen Media Center and are in the process of determining what kind of livestream will be possible (online and/or TV broadcast). Once we've got that info, we'll let you know.

We will not be taking questions live during the debate; however, our moderators are going to incorporate voters' questions in their queries to the candidates. Please do submit your questions to us by Jan. 29. We want to know what you care about. Send them to editor@paweekly.com.

About nonprofit status and politics/elections: The IRS allows 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations to engage legally in election-related activities. It draws the line at activity that supports or opposes candidates for public office.

Embarcadero won't be endorsing any candidates now that we are a nonprofit. However, a nonprofit news organization can and should fulfill its role in informing the public about candidates. Through the Jan. 31 forum, we'll be presenting the candidates themselves and asking questions that aim to illuminate the distinctions between them.

The 11 candidates are those who have qualified by law to run, according to the California Secretary of State. We reached out to all 11; 10 responded and are confirmed as participating on Jan. 31.