LTE: Let the People Vote

To the Editor:

Over the past decade, we’ve seen the Democratic Party at the national level repeatedly bypass voters—handing key decisions to a small circle of insiders. Whether it was the sidelining of Bernie Sanders in 2016 and 2020 or the current confusion surrounding Biden and Harris, one trend is clear: the party elites are deciding outcomes behind closed doors.

Now, this same approach is being replicated in Fairfield.

Following the tragic passing of our First Selectman, Fairfield’s Democrat Town Committee (DTC) is planning a backroom selection of our town’s next top leader—without input from the voters. This is not democracy; this is a political coup orchestrated by a small group of party insiders.

But there is another way: let the people decide.

Fairfield’s Town Charter allows for a special election if just 5% of registered voters sign a petition. This gives every voter the chance to hear directly from the candidates—evaluate their experience, vision, and leadership—and make an informed decision at the ballot box.

This is not about partisanship or a specific candidate. It’s about protecting democracy and trusting Fairfield residents to choose their own leaders.

Should a dozen insiders pick our First Selectman in a closed-door process—or should thousands of Fairfielders have their say in an open, fair election?

The answer is clear: Let the people vote.

Kevin Dillon