The Columbia Chamber of Commerce held a forum for local candidates running for office Wednesday night. The public heard from a range of candidates, including House, State Senate, County Treasurer and Commissioner.
Commissioner District 1: Sam Turner (R) vs Justin Aldred (D)
Turner, a Republican from Ashland, emphasized that he is a small-business owner.
Aldred, the incumbent, is helping with infrastructure and helping underprivileged individuals.
Commissioner District 2: Cheri Toalson Reisch (R) vs Janet Thompson (D)
The most heated debate of the night included comments from Thompson, who has been in this role since 2013. She emphasized the need for affordable housing and childcare. She also believes Columbia needs more public options.
“When you think about it, we need a strong and vibrant business community with a strong workforce,” Thompson said. “And with that strong workforce, that is the same thing the business community needs.”
Toalson Reisch, who is ending …