To the Editor:
As we enter the homestretch to Election Day, Stamford voters should be reminded that the Independent Party has endorsed 14 candidates in various races. Our candidates reflect a cross-section of both major parties (9 Democrats, 3 Republicans, and 2 Independents). To successfully lead our growing, vibrant city, cooperation is required, and our candidates are prepared to bridge the omnipresent partisan divide.
Caroline Simmons was endorsed for re-election by a majority vote of registered Stamford Independents at our August caucus.
Lyda Ruijter, a registered Democrat and the current Town Clerk, was also endorsed. Lyda has transitioned the Town Clerk’s office over the past 8 years, making it easier for residents to obtain information online, rather than making a trip to the Government Center. She has led her office with integrity and honesty, while striving to maintain an apolitical environment. Her transformation of the office has earned her praise from fellow town clerks statewide. Lyda is the hard worker Stamford residents need, and her re-election is well earned.
There are four well-qualified candidates for the Board of Education; the Independent Party has endorsed three. Jennifer Werely, MD, Kris O’Brien, and Dennis LoDolce all bring strengths absent from the current Board. Jen and Kris have three children each at every level of the public school system. Jen was also active with Turn of River PTO, and Kris’s wife is a teacher at Roxbury. Dennis is a Stamford Public School graduate and has three degrees, including a Master’s in Public Administration. Combined they encompass the parent, student, and teacher perspectives sorely missing on the current Board. Electing Jen, Kris, and Dennis will bring balance to the Board, allowing student performance to be prioritized while equally rejecting a continuation of the partisanship of the past four years.
Candidates endorsed for the Board of Representatives include Alfonso Hernandez (District 1), Heidy Balderamos (District 2), Ammy Hernandez (District 8), Osvin Lucero Garcia (District 9), Brittany Lawrence (District 10), Eric Morson and David Portanova (District 13), and Sean Boeger (District 17). These candidates not only reflect individual diversity but also a diverse political spectrum, bringing political views needed on Stamford’s legislative body. Each is dedicated to addressing issues important to their districts while ensuring future progress for Stamford.
As Election Day quickly approaches, I want to remind voters that they, through their vote, control our democracy. Absent public participation, such a system ceases to exist. I also want to acknowledge all candidates, including those not endorsed by the Independent Party. Public service requires sacrifice and commitment, and taking on this challenge is admirable. Most importantly, if elected, your loyalty lies with your neighbors. They elect you to be their voice, not an extension of any one political party. If elected, keep this at the forefront of every action or vote you take.
On November 4th, please come out and support Independent Party candidates found on Line C of your ballot.
Thomas Concannon
Stamford, CT
Thomas Concannon represents Stamford on the Independent Party State Central Committee and is also a candidate for the Board of Representatives in District 5.