The VS Committee and the LWVNY Board have confirmed that the current LWVNY Empty Chair policy will remain in effect without alteration as adopted in 1971. This decision was not taken lightly. In response to the Direction to the Board, the VS Committee studied the pros and cons of the EC policy and its impact on the Leagues’ dual mission of preserving nonpartisanship and educating voters. For 2 ½ months, we listened to the reasons offered by the two local and one state League that do not follow the EC policy and reached out to LWVNY local Leagues to understand how and to what effect they were following the EC policy. At the conclusion, we asked ourselves – and ask that you too consider: How is a single- candidate event not partisan? Even with the most even-handed procedures beforehand and thorough explanations afterward, the League is giving time to a single candidate and by any definition or measure, is partisan – that is what is seen, and heard, and perceived. Single-candidate events compromise the League’s gold standard, with the increasing potential for serious damage to its integrity and the trust it inspires.

We understand that some of you will be disappointed! But our dual mandate of educating voters and preserving nonpartisanship can be achieved by working within the EC policy. Yes, adhering to the EC policy will limit some candidate events, but there are many, many other ways to educate voters that will also create great visibility for the League and keep its nonpartisanship intact. For example, conducting high-visibility events that focus on issues instead of candidates; posting links to candidates’ websites and events where they are appearing; and for the long term, building relationships with Party leaders. Please see the Report here for other ideas!