October 19, 2026 | Gig Harbor, Washington
Heron’s Key is disappointed by the recent characterization of the October 19 candidate forum and would like to clarify the purpose and nature of this resident-organized event.
The forum was organized by members of the Heron’s Key Residents Association Community Engagement Committee as a nonpartisan educational opportunity for residents to hear directly from candidates representing both major political parties, ask thoughtful questions, and become better informed ahead of the upcoming election.
This was never intended to be a public campaign event, political rally, or media event.
Heron’s Key is a private senior living community, and the forum was scheduled in a resident gathering space with limited seating capacity. In fact, the space cannot accommodate all Heron’s Key residents who may wish to attend, making it especially important to prioritize resident participation.
While a limited number of outside guests could be accommodated, this did not change the private, resident-focused nature of the event.
Clarifying the October 18 Communication
Following a public announcement issued by one of the campaigns, Heron’s Key began receiving telephone inquiries from members of the media seeking to attend and cover the forum.
Because this was a private, resident-organized educational event rather than a public campaign appearance or press event, these inquiries created understandable concerns about attendance, capacity, and expectations for an event that was never designed to accommodate the general public.
In response, the resident organizer sent a communication to both campaigns on October 18 to clarify attendance limitations and participation guidelines. This communication was prompted by the unexpected interest from outside parties and was intended to preserve the resident-focused nature of the event, not to create obstacles to any candidate’s participation.
The guidelines were designed to ensure equitable treatment of both candidates and maintain an orderly, respectful environment where residents could listen, learn, and ask questions without the distractions often associated with political rallies.
Expectations regarding campaign materials, audience participation, and resident questions were consistent with that objective and were not intended to favor or disadvantage any candidate or political party.
We respect the role of the media and the importance of public access to political information. However, a privately organized gathering within a senior living community should not be confused with a public political forum. Publicizing an event does not change its intended audience, available capacity, or the responsibility of its organizers to establish reasonable guidelines.
Respecting Candidates and Protecting Residents
We recognize that candidates may have legitimate security considerations, and we respect their right to determine whether they wish to participate. However, those considerations must also be balanced with the privacy, safety, and well-being of the residents who call Heron’s Key home.
The organizers’ intention was to provide an opportunity for both candidates to engage with residents under the same guidelines, in an environment that encouraged meaningful discussion rather than political demonstrations.
We respect every candidate’s decision regarding participation. At the same time, we are disappointed that an event created by residents to encourage civic engagement and thoughtful, bipartisan dialogue has become the subject of political controversy.
Our Commitment to Civil Discourse
Heron’s Key has a strong tradition of resident leadership, lifelong learning, and civic engagement. Our residents regularly organize educational programs, discussions, and opportunities to explore different perspectives on issues that matter to them.
Our residents deserve the opportunity to engage with candidates in a respectful environment without their community becoming a platform for campaign promotion or partisan disagreement.
It is unfortunate that an event intended to bring people together across political differences has instead become a source of division. Our residents volunteered their time to create an opportunity for meaningful civic dialogue, and their efforts should be celebrated rather than politicized.
We remain grateful to the members of the Heron’s Key Residents Association Community Engagement Committee for their dedication to creating opportunities for informed discussion and community engagement.
Heron’s Key remains committed to supporting resident-led initiatives, encouraging respectful dialogue across differing viewpoints, and maintaining a welcoming environment where residents can continue to learn, participate, and make their voices heard.
Our commitment is to our residents, their well-being, and their right to engage in meaningful civic dialogue in the community they call home.
MEDIA CONTACT
Email: [email protected]
Heron’s Key
Gig Harbor, Washington
A Life Plan Community of Emerald Communities
