Cristin McCarthy Vahey Is the Leader We Need

In my lifetime, I have never seen a lower sense of trust in government and in the politicians who are elected to run it. Integrity, thoughtfulness, a collaborative approach, and an open, curious mind are qualities that seem to be in short supply for positions that require these values. The 133rd is fortunate to have been represented by one of those elected officials who embody these values and approaches the job with public service as her sole objective – Cristin McCarthy Vahey.

I first met Cristin when we were both moms of newborns attending a League of Women Voters meeting, wanting to give back to our communities. Cristin has gone on to serve Fairfield in many roles – as an RTM member, a Selectperson and, for the past eleven years, as our State Representative, as well as serving our neighbors in Bridgeport. She has shown herself to be the best kind of leader. She listens to constituents and makes sure that people know they are being heard. She constantly educates herself on current and rising issues, going to conferences and attending workshops to be prepared to apply best practices to better Connecticut. She approaches a challenge with an open mind, seeking to apply many perspectives to inform her position. She is unafraid to confront the thorniest of problems in order to improve the lives of residents in her district and the state. She treats everyone with respect and dignity in all situations, even the most contentious or uncomfortable. Cristin’s abilities as a legislator and leader have placed her as chair of the most important committees at the Capitol and allow her to ensure that the needs of her district are being met.

Among her many accomplishments in Hartford, Cristin has sent millions to Fairfield and Bridgeport to create healthy learning spaces in schools, and to support special education, early childhood care and universal free breakfast. With her support of the Earned Income Tax Credit, Cristin provided property tax relief for working families. She pushed back on unfair practices in healthcare, made sure insurers covered mental health care, and made telehealth a permanent option for Connecticut patients. As a supporter of the Main Street Working Group, Cristin’s work strengthens our small businesses and arts, culture and tourism sector, protecting the quality of life and downtown experiences that we enjoy and making Fairfield and Bridgeport special places to live and visit.

Cristin has put us and our neighbors first in every consideration she makes in Hartford. Her record speaks to her ability to get things done; her humanity and integrity make her the leader that we need now more than ever. I am proud to support the re-election of Cristin McCarthy Vahey.

Michelle McCabe

Fairfield, CT