Senate candidate to hold campaign event on sidewalk in Richland

A candidate challenging US Senator Maria Cantwell's seat, still plans to hold an election event in the Tri-Cities this week despite several setbacks.

Joey Gibson had originally planned to hold the event at a local hotel. However, according to a press release from Gibson's campaign, the hotel received threats and cancelled the event as a result.

That prompted Gibson to relocate the event to the John Dam Plaza on George Washington Way near the HAPO stage from 11 am to 2pm. However, city officials say the group did not receive permission to be there, and the grounds are already rented out to The Arc of the Tri-Cities at that time. The group is hosting the March for Respect event, to honor local citizens living with disabilities.

Joe Schiessl, the Director of Parks and Public Facilities, says Gibson informed them he would be exercising his first amendment rights and still host his campaign on the sidewalk near John Dam Plaza.

Schiessl said the city will "do everything we can to make sure both events can be successful without disturbing one another."

He also added they are working in conjunction with all corners of the city departments, including law enforcement to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Derek Lancaster with the Joey Gibson for US Senate campaign said they also are currently working with local law enforcement about their event.