The Middletown Press (Middletown, CT)
1st selectman candidate endorsed by AFT
PORTLAND — The American Federation of Teachers Connecticut last week endorsed Democrat Jim Tripp’s candidacy for first selectman of Portland.
“The decision to endorse your candidacy was made because of your commitment to working families and advocating for issues that are important to AFT Connecticut’s members,” AFT Connecticut Legislative Advocate Teri Merisotis wrote in a letter to Tripp.
“Clearly, this election is very important to the people of Connecticut and specifically your town,” Merisotis said.
The labor group represents over 30,000 members in the state, and includes teachers, paraprofessionals, state employees, health care workers, and higher education faculty and staff, according to the AFT website.
Tripp said in a press release that he is honored to have the union’s support.
“AFT Connecticut has long been a strong voice for fair wages, affordable health care, and equal access to high-quality education,” he said. “The health of any community is directly tied to the health of its school system.
“As first selectman, I will continue to support our excellent public schools and work toward a solution to address our school facility needs that ensures our students are learning in safe, efficient, and up-todate facilities that support 21st-century learning.”
Tripp has been going door-to-door meeting with voters in Portland, listening to their concerns, and sharing his vision for our community, the news release said.
He has launched a campaign website, jimtrippforportland.com, and can be found on Instagram at jimtrippforportland.