Warren throws support to Hayes
GOP balks at senator’s backing of newcomer
Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s support for Democratic newcomer Jahana Hayes in the race for Connecticut’s most competitive Congressional seat is the latest evidence that Hayes’ appeal reaches beyond the 5th District.
Warren, the outspoken Democratic senator from Massachusetts who is con- sidered a presidential contender in 2020, tweeted her support for Hayes and encouraged donors in a letter to give generously to Hayes’ campaign.
“The only way we are going to protect what makes our country truly great already will be by electing leaders like Jahana Hayes,” reads a letter to supporters from Warren. “She’s committed to fighting for Medicare for all, for
stronger guns laws, and for an education system that serves all our kids.”
While Hayes said she was grateful for Warren’s support, her Republican opponent said the endorsement was evidence that Hayes was too far left for voters of the 5th District, which stretches from the Danbury area to Massachusetts.
“Elizabeth Warren is one of the most progressive senators in Washington, who will push to remove President (Donald) Trump from office,” former Meriden Mayor Manny Santos wrote in posts on Facebook and Twitter. “Donate to our campaign to ensure this doesn't happen.”
The Connecticut Republican Party leader agreed.
“There is no question that Elizabeth Warren is a senator who is more interested in resisting than in leadership, and our state desperately needs leadership,” said J.R. Romano. “Connecticut is in the position we are in because of Democratic policies.”
Hayes, who is considered a rising star in the party, is part of a wave of progressive Democrats winning
primaries across the country.
She is running against Santos to replace U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty, a three-term Democrat who dropped plans to seek a new term after admitting her role in covering up an office abuse
scandal.
A Hayes spokesman said Warren’s support was a consequence of Hayes’ hard work to raise money and mobilize voters.
“Jahana is focused solely on the 5th District and working hard to make sure
folks knows she understands the issues,” said Andrew Doba. “Given her profile and what she stands for, it is not surprising that she is attracting attention from across the country.”