To the Editor:
I’ve long stayed away from the political arena. However, the tone of the mailers I am receiving as we near election sets a poor example for our area in terms of the actual issues we as residents face. Conflating national politics with our local representatives is exactly the kind of problem we as voters can solve as we go the polls. It’s why I’m supporting Shaun Mastroianni.
In getting to know Shaun, I’ve found him to be pragmatic, open minded, and acting in the best interest of his constituents. Which makes his opponent’s attacks; portraying Shaun as embedded with Trump and other controversial Republicans, particularly troublesome. This represents political rhetoric of the laziest sort and it’s misleading and insulting to voters.
As a registered Independent, disaffected largely by the positions of the GOP in Washington, I’ve hoped to find reasonable lines of commonality with both Democrats and Republicans. In some ways I have. It would be hard to argue that we are not best represented in our economic interests by Democrat Joe Courtney’s representation of the second district. Similarly, Representative Devin Carney, a Republican, continues a bipartisan approach far removed from D.C, and effectively supports environmental, economic, and educational legislation benefiting his district.
Shaun will do the same. Helping residents in our community afford to live in the same communities they work in, reducing our energy costs for all residents, protecting our senior’s welfare and expanding access to all for preventive care. Shaun’s approach to strengthening our schools across all towns in the district is particularly important. It’s a truly pragmatic approach that brings mutual benefits to teachers and students alike by increasing access to STEM and vocational training, in addition to allowing parents a continued strong voice in the education of their children.
By contrast, short of supporting federal legislation that is not threatened reasonably by either party in Connecticut, I can’t understand what Martha stands for. A quick comparison of both campaign’s websites should be encouraged. Martha’s cites many prior accomplishments, but little in the way of what her next term will bring. Shaun’s has a tab with his positions on the issues – none of which cite further restriction of women’s bodily autonomy, direct or inferred support of former President Trump, or any of the claims made by Marx.
As an Independent, voting for Shaun is a vote for the issues that truly impact our towns – not a referendum on the national election. Any insinuation otherwise is to discredit the strong, educated, and hard-working voters of our district. We can and should expect better of our representation – especially from an incumbent. It’s one of the many reasons to support Shaun.
Sincerely,
Alexander Strekel,
Old Lyme.
