Ridgefield Letter: LWV Candidate Formu - Dems Show Up

How utterly disappointing it was to attend the LWV candidate forum last Tuesday, expecting to hear eight candidates share their views on the issues affecting Ridgefield. All 4 Democrats attended, but only one Republican participated and debated the Democratic candidate for the 42nd House District, Savet Constantine. Two other Republicans canceled a few days prior, and one left the room minutes before the start. 

I expect my elected officials to understand how important it is to tell constituents how they plan to represent our interests. I expect them to respect me and my neighbors enough to see us as worthy of that kind of attention.

The positions these “no-show” candidates are vying for require dedication, tenacity, and flexibility. State Senators Ceci Maher and Julie Kushner, and State Representative Aimee Berger Gervalo know what it takes. They have proven this over the past few years. They consistently show up for Ridgefield by supporting common-sense policies that make Ridgefield a great place to live. They showed their integrity and interest by being there, even though Ceci and Julie knew they could not participate due to LWV rules and the Republican absences. Aimee showed up ready and willing to answer questions from the attendees, only to be told she would be excluded due to the “walk out” of her opponent. Frankly, these Republican no-shows were inexcusable and highly disrespectful.

Ceci, Julie, and Aimee are the kind of representatives I want. Please join me in supporting them for re-election and Savet for election starting October 21st when early voting begins.

Jennifer Dilaura

Barry Avenue