Tp the Editor:
East Lyme deserves leaders who take responsibility, plan for the long term, and put our community first. That’s why it is so important to continue supporting First Selectman Dan Cunningham and the Democratic team.
Over the past several years, we have seen what happens when government is managed without accountability. Previous Republican administrations borrowed millions of dollars, leaving East Lyme taxpayers to shoulder the financial consequences. These were decisions made without regard for the community, with little concern for who would ultimately pay the price. Too often, when the consequences of those choices became apparent, Republican members of the Board of Finance responded not with solutions, but with partisan finger-pointing and blame-shifting. It is no surprise that none of them are seeking re-election—they know this approach is unsustainable and irresponsible.
Recent events illustrate this pattern all too clearly. The Board of Finance recently jeopardized a state grant for 278 Main Street in Niantic over political differences, risking valuable funds for the town simply to score partisan points. This is not leadership; it is politics at the expense of East Lyme residents. We’ve seen similar behavior at the national level: borrowing recklessly, delaying tough decisions, and leaving the consequences for someone else to address. East Lyme deserves better.
By contrast, Dan Cunningham and the Democratic team have demonstrated that leadership means accountability, professionalism, and putting the town’s needs above partisan politics. Under their guidance, East Lyme has strengthened essential services, improved fiscal oversight, and restored trust in local government. When challenges arise, they do not push them down the road or deflect responsibility—they confront them head-on and make decisions that protect both residents and the town’s long-term future.
Leadership is about making hard choices today so the community can thrive tomorrow. Dan Cunningham has proven that he is willing to make those choices and stand by them. With him at the helm, East Lyme has stability, foresight, and a commitment to residents that cannot be taken for granted.
Our town cannot afford to return to short-sighted management or partisan gamesmanship. East Lyme needs experienced, responsible leadership, and that leadership is already in place with Dan Cunningham and the Democratic team. With Dan, the buck stops here, and decisions are made with the community—not politics—in mind.
It is essential for all residents who care about East Lyme’s future to recognize the value of this leadership and to support it. By keeping Dan Cunningham and the Democratic team in office, we ensure that East Lyme continues on a path of accountability, thoughtful governance, and progress for everyone who calls this town home.
Jill Carini
East Lyme, CT
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Carini is a member of the East Lyme Board of Education