Mother Forward to Host Nonpartisan Candidate Town Hall in Caro on Issues Affecting Michigan Families Candidates to Discuss Affordable Childcare, Paid Family and Medical Leave, and Advanced AI’s Impact on Children’s Future October 21, 2026

Mother Forward Michigan will host an in-person, nonpartisan candidate town hall on Wednesday, October 21, bringing local residents and candidates together for a conversation about the issues affecting Michigan families.

The event will allow community members to hear directly from candidates about their positions and plans on affordable childcare, paid family and medical leave, and the implications of advanced artificial intelligence for children and families.

Six candidates have confirmed their participation:

• April Osentoski, candidate for Michigan Senate District 25 (D)
• Andrew Beeler, candidate for Michigan Senate District 25 ( R )
• Brendan J. Johnson, candidate for Michigan Senate District 26 (D)
• Jack Bader, candidate for Michigan House District 97 (D)
• Briar Bearss, candidate for Michigan House District 97 (R )
• Ray Pooley, candidate for US House District 9 (D)

The town hall will feature candidate introductions, questions about family policy priorities, and a discussion of proposals to improve access to affordable childcare, expand paid family and medical leave, and address emerging concerns about advanced AI.

“We care deeply about our communities and see firsthand the struggles families are facing,” said Nikki, a co-lead of the Mother Forward Michigan chapter. “We want our elected officials to see us, hear our voices, and fight for the issues that matter most to the people they represent.”

Mother Forward Michigan is a chapter of a national grassroots community of moms working across the country to advance family-first policies and ensure families have the support they need to thrive.

The event is nonpartisan and focused on helping residents understand candidates’ positions on issues affecting families.

EVENT DETAILS

What: Mother Forward Michigan Nonpartisan Candidate Town Hall
When: Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 6–7 p.m.
Where: Caro Area District Library Caro, 840 W Frank St, Caro, MI 48723
Topics: Affordable childcare, paid family and medical leave, and advanced AI
Format: In-person candidate introductions and moderated policy questions
Media are invited to attend. Interviews and photo opportunities may be available, subject to event logistics.

For more information and event details, visit:
https://act.motherforward.org/mom-hour-with-the-candidates

About Mother Forward

Mother Forward is a national grassroots community of moms working across the country to advocate for affordable childcare and paid family leave. We believe that when moms thrive, we all thrive. By centering the leadership, skills, and talents of moms, we are building a community of motherly support that mobilizes to pass federal and local policies that support families and create economic security.