The Liberty County Branch of the NAACP is giving voters an opportunity to find out where candidates stand on issues before November’s general election.

The organization is sponsoring a political forum at 6 p.m. Oct. 4 in the Liberty County Performing Arts Center in Flemington and is inviting all candidates for local, state and congressional office who face opposition to participate, Liberty Branch NAACP President Graylan Quarterman said.

The purpose of the forum is to "make sure that our citizens are informed about the candidates and their platforms," Quarterman said. "We want to give the candidates the opportunity to address some of the public’s concerns prior to the election."

Only candidates who face opposition will be invited. Those candidates include Liberty County Commission Chairman Donald Lovette, a Democrat who is being challenged by Republican Matt Mattingly.

Also up for grabs on the county commission is the District 4 commission seat, where incumbent Pat Bowen is being challenged by Ted Eby, a Republican.

Incumbent Sheriff Steve Sykes, a Democrat, is facing opposition from Republican candidate Robert Brooks.

In federal races, Sen. Johnny Isakson, a Republican, will face Democratic challenger Jim Barksdale, libertarian candidate Allen Buckley and write-in candidate Michelle Gates in the polls in November.

Rep. Buddy Carter (R-Pooler) is being challenged by a write-in Democratic candidate, Nathan Russo. Russo, a former New York businessman, now lives on St. Simon’s Island.

The Liberty County Branch of the NAACP’s forum will give each candidate a few minutes to speak before they face questions from the audience and from those emailed in advance to NAACPforum@coastalcourier.com.