Decision 2026: Local Political Candidates to Participate in Nonpartisan Forum Series

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Partners for Affordable Housing announced a four-part nonpartisan candidate forum series. It's titled "Housing is a Math Problem" and addresses the affordability crisis in Central Oregon. The series will run from April through September 2026.

The forum will feature feature candidates in several of the region's most consequential races, starting with Deschutes County Commissioner seats.

Unlike traditional debates, the forums will use questions developed by community members.

The series begins Monday, April 30 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Open Space Event Studios in Bend. The event is free and open to the public, however, you must RVSP on the event website.

Following the April event, the coalition plans to hold a gubernatorial candidate forum in late May or early June.

The series will conclude in September with a forum for the Bend mayor and City Council followed by a Redmond City Council forum.

Organizations interested in sponsoring the candidate forum series must pledge their support by March 31, 2026. The first forum is scheduled to take place at Open Space Event Studios in Bend on April 30.