Virtual Forum Set for District 7 Special Election in Tuscaloosa, Alabama

The League of Women Voters of Greater Tuscaloosa is hosting a virtual forum for the candidates in the District 7 City Council race ahead of the special election later this month.

Past council member Sonya McKinstry and challenger Cassius Lanier will each present their goals and plans for District 7 on Thursday, July 22 from 7-8 p.m. on the LWVGT's YouTube channel.

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Lanier and McKinstry previously faced off for the seat in March's general election. McKinstry lost that race by a margin of fewer than 25 votes.

McKinstry sued Lanier, citing an Alabama law that said Lanier's previous state felony convictions and federal felony conviction should bar him from holding office.

Although Lanier obtained the four state pardons and one federal pardon in April, a Birmingham Circuit judge later nullified that decision. According to the judge, this is because Lanier had not obtained the pardons at the time of the general election.

This forced a special election to be called, and the two returning candidates will be the only ones on the ballot.

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization committed to keeping citizens informed about their government. The LWV does not support specific political parties or candidates.

For voters looking to vote absentee, ballots can be obtained at the City Clerk's office in City Hall. Applications are due by July 22 at 5 p.m. and ballots must be delivered by July 26 at 5 p.m.

For more information, visit elections.tuscaloosa.com or contact Kimberly Bailey with the LWV at kabailey07@gmail.com.

The special election will take place on Tuesday, July 27.