Letter to the Editor in Support of Candace Fay for 2nd District State Rep.

Letter to the Editor:

Dear Voters in the Second District,

On Tuesday, November 4, we will be heading to the polls to cast our votes for the candidates we feel will give our state and districts the best chance for success and growth over the coming years. One race that is of particular interest is the Second District’s State Representative seat, with Democratic challenger Candace Fay facing Republican incumbent, Dan Carter.

Dan Carter bills himself as a “common sense” leader. His voting record says otherwise. In 2013 and 2014, Dan Carter voted against both bills put forth to raise the state minimum wage (2013: SB 387; 2014: SB 32). They both passed. He has voted against bills authorizing early and absentee voting, as well as Election Day registration. They all passed. He voted against HB 5274, a bill sponsored by the bipartisan Commerce committee that would prohibit employers and employment agencies from discriminating against unemployed applicants. That too passed. Of course, he also voted against SB 1160, a bill designed to establish secure firearms and ammunition enforcement largely in response to the tragedy at Sandy Hook schools. And, of course, that bill overwhelmingly passed.

Recently, in a Twitter exchange with constituents, Dan Carter again put the spotlight on himself with an insensitive comment that attempted to share culpability for gun deaths equally between the NRA, the well-funded pro-gun lobby, and two local volunteer organizations the NAA (Newtown Action Alliance) and CAGV (Connecticut Against Gun Violence). Both of the latter are dedicated to stemming gun violence by pushing for responsible, safer gun laws. As far as I know, Mr. Carter has not apologized for his comment that hurt so many volunteers of those groups, members of this community, and his constituents. Instead, he has opted to admit in a debate with Ms. Fay that the comments were “incredibly dumb.” Recognizing the stupidity and insensitivity is not a substitute for an apology.

Candace Fay, the challenger, is a lifelong Danbury resident, and a practicing lawyer with a sterling record of professionalism. Throughout this election season, she has demonstrated a terrific understanding of the issues affecting our region the most both in debates with Mr. Carter, and speaking engagements throughout the district. She has solid ideas for improving our infrastructure, our schools, and growing businesses in our community. She is moderate and well-reasoned, and dedicated to serving her community through her volunteer work, and her campaign for State Representative of the 2nd District.

Ms. Fay is the best choice for State Representative. She is eminently qualified, and unlike Mr. Carter, will serve our community with its best interests in mind. On Tuesday, vote for Candace Fay for State Representative of the 2nd District. Doing so is just common sense.

Sincerely,

James Naddeo - Bethel