HUTCHINSON, Kansas (April 16, 2010) Young Professionals of Reno County, along with Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce and the Hutchinson News, will host a primary election forum for the Republican candidates running for the open Congressional seat in the 1^st District. The event takes place on Tuesday, May 25, from 6:30-8:00 p.m. at Stringer Fine Arts Center, 1300 N. Plum, Hutchinson.

Seven Republicans are vying for a place on the ballot for the 1^st District Congressional seat currently held by Representative Jerry Moran. The forum will allow attendees to become familiar with the candidates before heading to the polls in August. Candidates will present brief position statements and answer specific questions submitted by members of the audience.

The following Congressional hopefuls have been invited to participate, Sen. Jim Barnett, Sue Boldra, Sen.Tim Huelskamp, Marck Cobb, Tracey Mann, Monte Shadwick, and Rob Wasinger. Six of the candidates have already confirmed their attendance at the Hutchinson event. The forum is free and open to the general public.

For more information, contact Jade Piros at jadep@hutchchamber.com or call the Chamber office at (620)662-3391