The Gulfport High School Young Democrats group is holding a forum/debate for House District 119 candidates from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday.

The event will be at the Gulfport High School Little Theater, and is open to the public.

Five Democrats are vying to replace longtime Rep. Frances Fredericks, who is not seeking re-election. The candidates agree a strong representative will be needed to replace her.

The candidates are: John Johnson, Jacqueline Patton Johnson, Richard “Kim” Marsh, Robert Williams and Sonya Williams-Barnes.

The Aug. 2 primary will decide the race.