First opportunity for voters to see both candidates address key issues
BOSTON — Patrick Roath, Democratic candidate for Congress in Massachusetts’ 8th District, today confirmed his participation in the upcoming MA-08 Candidate Forum on January 29th and called on Congressman Stephen Lynch to participate as well.
The forum will be held from 7:00-8:30 PM next to Copley Square and live-streamed. Voters will have the opportunity to hear directly from candidates about how they plan to defend democracy, their legislative priorities, and their strategies to oppose the Trump administration’s agenda.
“I’m excited to participate in this forum and share my vision for the district,” said Roath. “Congressman Lynch has represented MA-08 for 24 years. Voters deserve to see us side-by-side, hear how we’d approach the challenges facing working families, and make an informed choice in September. I’m calling on Congressman Lynch to join me.”
Lynch has refused to confirm his attendance. Roath has repeatedly called for debates and public forums throughout the campaign, while Lynch has not held an in-person town hall since 2019.
In recent days, Roath’s campaign announced endorsements from former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, a slate of local elected officials from across the district, and Leaders We Deserve, the national grassroots organization co-founded by gun control activist David Hogg.
Forum Details:
- Register online here
- Date: January 29, 2026
- Time: 7:00-8:30 PM
- Location: Copley Square; live-streamed
- Sponsors: Indivisible groups and Progressive Mass chapters across MA-08
Media: Members of the press are welcome to attend