The Washington Democratic Parish Executive Committee (DPEC) will host its 2026 Meet the Candidate Forum on Saturday, August 22, offering Washington Parish voters an opportunity to meet candidates, hear directly from those seeking public office, and engage in meaningful civic conversation ahead of upcoming elections.
In addition to providing candidate information, the event also serves as a fundraiser for the Washington Parish Democratic Party.
This 2026 Meet the Candidate Forum is a nonpartisan community event open to candidates from all political parties. Candidates seeking office in upcoming state, parish, and municipal elections are invited to participate, and voters of all political affiliations are welcome to attend.
The event will be held from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the American Legion Hall, 63349 Highway 10 in Bogalusa. The Meet and Greet will take place from 5:00 to 5:45 p.m., providing attendees an opportunity to meet candidates and fellow members of the community. Opening remarks and meal service will follow, with the Candidate Forum beginning at 6:00 p.m. and continuing until 9:00 p.m.
During the forum, each candidate will introduce themselves and share their platform with voters.
“The Meet the Candidate Forum is an opportunity to bring candidates and members of our community together in one place,” organizers said. “We hope to create an environment where voters can meet the people seeking their support, hear their perspectives, and participate in the civic process.”
Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended. General Admission tickets are $40 per person and may be purchased in advance. Candidate Admission tickets are $90 per candidate, which includes a $50 fee assessed for speaking in the forum. Guests may also reserve tables at a discounted group rate. The speaking fee is waived for candidates who purchase a table. A limited number of General Admission and candidate registrations will be available at the door.
The preferred deadline for candidate enrollment is Saturday, August 15, 2026.
Additional information regarding candidate participation, ticketing, and table reservations is available through the Washington Democratic Parish Executive Committee. Interested parties may contact the committee by email at DemocratsofWP@gmail.org.
Democratic Parish Executive Committee invites candidates, voters, and community members from across Washington Parish to join together to hear from those seeking public office and celebrate one of the nation’s most enduring civic traditions: participating in the democratic process.
