To The Editor:

The question I keep hearing from my unaffiliated and Republican friends who are not part of the MAGA movement is simple: Why Amybeth Laroche for State Senate?

It makes little sense that the Republican MAGA hierarchy would oust Tony Hwang, a five-term moderate Republican senator from the 28th Senatorial District, in favor of Laroche, who has very limited experience for the role.

Clearly, MAGA Republicans recognize that the inflationary economy, the war with Iran, and the Epstein files could produce a wave of voter backlash that sweeps Democrats into office. Connecticut MAGA appears to be preparing for that possibility. Yet instead of mounting a strong challenge, the party is running one of the least experienced candidates the 28th Senatorial District has seen.

Rob Blanchard brings extensive state-level experience in the Governor’s office and substantial local-government leadership through Fairfield’s Representative Town Meeting, particularly on finance. By contrast, Amybeth Laroche has only nine months of experience on the Board of Finance.

Sadly, Laroche may not realize that she is being treated as a sacrificial candidate. Republicans have more qualified options, yet none appear willing to run and risk losing in November. For anyone who thinks MAGA exists only in Washington, the reality is clear: It is alive and well in local politics. Let’s vote it out of office.

Vote for Rob Blanchard for State Senate. He is the real deal — no MAGA games. As a husband, father, and experienced local representative, he understands how difficult this economy has made it for families to put food on the table.

Tom Miskelly

Newtown