NOW President Kim Gandy to Open Forum for Maryland Senate Candidates

National Organization for Women President Kim Gandy will make opening remarks at a candidate forum for U.S. Senate hopefuls on Wednesday, Jan. 11.

The forum is being sponsored by Maryland NOW, and almost all official candidates will be represented. The candidates are vying to replace longtime Democratic senator Paul Sarbanes, who has been a crucial vote for women since 1977.

"As we watch the Alito confirmation hearings, the questions underline the critical role of senators in upholding women's rights," Gandy said. "As the members of the U.S. Senate consider a Supreme Court candidate who threatens to turn back the clock on our fundamental freedoms, Maryland voters must weigh very carefully the promises and ideals of these candidates."

What:	Candidate forum for U.S. Senate candidates from Maryland: "The Balance on the Supreme Court -The Role of the U.S. Senate." The moderated forum is free to the public.
What:	U.S. Senate candidates Kweisi Mfume (D), Kevin Zeese (I), Lise Van Susteren (D), Allan Lichtman (D) and a representative for Ben Cardin (D). National Organization for Women President Kim Gandy and U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D – Md.) will give opening remarks.
When:	Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2006, 7 – 9 p.m.
Where:	Women's Club of Chevy Chase 7931 Connecticut Avenue Chevy Chase, MD 20815

Maryland NOW President Duchy Trachtenberg said the organization planned the forum to coincide with the Alito confirmation hearings, which will underscore the importance of electing senators who pledge to uphold freedom and expand the rights of women—not hold them back.

"A potential Alito confirmation would have a broad impact on a number of issues, including reproductive rights, affirmative action, and race and gender discrimination," Trachtenberg said. "Women's rights are truly on the line."

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For Immediate Release
Contact: Latoya Veal w. 202-628-8669, ext. 116, c. 301-660-3447

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