Name: Gordon Smith Profession: Child and Family Therapist In up to two words, describe your political affiliation: Democratic Party In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: Buncombe County is one of the best places on earth, and we the people of Buncombe…

Name: Jasmine Beach-Ferrara Profession: Founding Executive Director of the Campaign for Southern Equality. In up to two words, describe your political affiliation: Progressive Democrat. In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: As a mom and a minister, I know Buncombe County families face…

Name: Larry Dodson Profession: Asheville Fire Department Captain In up to two words, describe your political affiliation: Hardworking Democrat. In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: I am passionate about healthy communities and equitable governance. General questions These questions are about problems, challenges…

Name: Nancy Nehls Nelson Profession: Retired from AT&T Bell Labs In up to two words, describe your political affiliation: Democrat In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: I am an engaged community advocate that has the experience to have a significant voice…

Name: Matt Kern Profession: Home Builder and organizer of the French Broad River Festival In up to two words, describe your political affiliation: Democrat In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: I’m a small business owner and father of 2 young boys…

[This candidate response contains violent transphobia. While the Blade does not weigh in on how individuals should vote, we are completely against bigotry from any candidate of any stripe or party. Blatant prejudice has no place here or anywhere else.] Name: Jordan Burchette Profession: Manager…

The voter ID mess, court battles and rapidly-changing legislation have left voters — especially new voters — with a lot of questions. Here’s what to know as you go to the polls Early voting for the March 15 primary started today. While the ongoing court…

After Charlotte passes extensive LGBT protections, it’s a matter of question if Asheville City Council will do the same in the near future Above: A pride flag flies from City Hall in 2014 after a federal court struck down the state’s ban on equal marriage. Photo…

With several competitive primaries for the key county commissioner races, we’re seeking your ideas about what to ask the candidates Hello readers, it’s that time again. With a major primary election coming up, the Blade‘s hard at work crafting questions for candidates all across the…

Over its two-day retreat, Asheville City Council set some goals, split on affordable housing, clashed with staff and set the stage for some interesting times ahead Above: the goals of Council members and staff during part of their annual retreat Every year, Asheville City Council…