Hope for integrity, character and equality in dark days

Congresswoman Jahana Hayes, state Senators Will Haskell and Julie Kushner, and state Rep. Raghib Allie-Brennan have earned our votes for reelection. State Rep. Kerrie Columbo deserves our support as a first-time candidate. These candidates have distinguished themselves from their opposition by their commitment by energetically serving their districts, their work ethic, a willingness to compromise and recognition that their district’s issues are also Connecticut’s. Each also features strong personal values that prioritize principles over political expediency.

Each of our incumbents meet their promises and work to solve our most pressing problems. They communicate thoroughly and often with their constituents, in person and in writing. They have earned the respect and trust of their colleagues in the Congress, State Senate and Legislature — without rancor.

Jahana, Will, Raghib, and Julie have already exemplified “Common Sense Leadership” by bringing Connecticut dollars home to their districts, gaining progress in the fight for increased gun safety, advocating for women’s health and reproductive rights, working for lowering prescription drug costs and recognizing the need for quickly developing robust alternatives to fossil fuels.

Standing silently by, enabling through acquiescence, or blindly following party leadership in fomenting violence, ridiculing their opponents, lying ad nauseum, advocating for voter suppression and intimidation are not characteristics of my candidates. Hopefully, integrity, character and equality will emerge from these dark days.

David Olson Bethel