Candidates Criticized for Absence at Columbus Forum Ahead of May 19 Election

Two candidates seeking seats on the Columbus City Council are drawing sharp criticism after failing to attend a recent public forum sponsored by The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper and Davis Broadcasting, Inc., raising concerns about voter engagement ahead of the May 19 election.

Karen Gaskins, a candidate for District 1, and incumbent Charmain Crabb of District 5 were both absent from the event despite receiving formal invitations alongside other candidates

Their absence did not go unnoticed.

Robert Wadkins Jr., a challenger in District 5, said Crabb’s failure to attend reflects a troubling pattern.

“This was the seventh forum where I have been present and my opponent, Charmain Crabb, has been invited but failed to show up,” Wadkins said. “It is important for voters to see and hear from those seeking to represent them. District 5 deserves better, and Columbus deserves better.”

Simi Barnes, a candidate in District 1, echoed those concerns, particularly given the makeup of the district.

“For someone seeking to represent a majority African American district, it was concerning that Karen Gaskins did not feel it important to be present and listen to constituents,” Barnes said.

According to U.S. Census data, District 1 is majority Black, with approximately 64.9% Black residents. Following 2021 redistricting, that number has increased to an estimated 76% minority population.

Both Gaskins and Crabb cited scheduling conflicts in separate responses declining the invitation. However, organizers noted that invitations were emailed to each candidate on March 16, providing ample time to make the necessary arrangements. For candidates seeking to represent a diverse constituency that includes significant Black and Hispanic populations, their absence raised questions about the priority placed on engaging directly with those communities.

But let’s be clear: in a city of more than 200,000 residents—where nearly half the population is Black and civic trust is built through face-to-face engagement—forums like these are not optional. They are essential.

This is where voters get to see more than campaign signs and social media posts. This is where accountability lives. This is where leadership is tested — not in controlled environments, but in front of the very people candidates are asking to serve.

You cannot ask for the people’s vote and then be absent when the people show up.

The Candidate Forum Series was created with one purpose: to inform, empower and engage voters by providing direct access to those seeking public office. When candidates choose not to participate, it raises a fundamental question — if not now, when?

May 19 is not just another election date. It is a test of commitment — for candidates and voters alike.

And in this moment, showing up matters.