Local and statewide Democratic candidate has been invited to the local Democratic party’s “Movement on the Square” rally from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday in downtown Covington.

The Newton County Democratic Party elected not to stage a candidate’s forum this year, but chose the rally as a chance to inform voters and highlight Democratic candidates, said Sarah Todd, a state party officer.

Former Gov. Roy Barnes would be the headliner and said previously he hoped to attend, but Todd said his appearance is uncertain. State school superintendent candidate Joe Martin and U.S. Congressman Jim Marshall have also both tentatively agreed to come. Any candidate that can’t attend will try to send a proxy.

Confirmed candidates include those for Newton County Board of Commissioners and Board of Education, State Representative 95 and State Senate 17. Public Service Commission candidate Keith Moffett and U.S. Representative District 7 candidate Doug Heckman are also expected to attend.

Secretary of State candidate Georganna Sinkfield will send a representative, but will be in Newton County Saturday evening to be the keynote speaker for the NAACP’s Freedom Fund Gala in Oxford.

Each candidate will be given five to 10 minutes to give their background and campaign platform and will also mingle with the crowd and take individual questions. Todd said the event will be fairly informal.

Campaign literature and yard signs will be available. Todd said the local party is also accepting donations, which are always spent with Newton County businesses