To The Editor:

I recently purchased a car. I paid $6500 for this car and for the privilege of driving my new car legally, the state of CT lightened my wallet by over $650. That's 10% of the purchase price paid to register my “new” car.

I mention this because there’s a serious push to replace Mitch Bolinsky, a Republican, with Michelle Embree Ku, a Democrat. Since 2010 Democrats have controlled the Senate, the House, and the Governorship in CT. This 16 year lock on government by one party has not been, in my opinion, good for our state. Having said that, if you feel you're not paying enough sales tax and fees to register a vehicle, that your property taxes are reasonable, that paying for your neighbors solar panels and heat pumps is OK, and you're a fan of education mandates from Hartford, and think it's a good idea for one party to unilaterally limit public participation on important issues such as education, and health, then vote for Ms Embree Ku. If you welcome the state usurping local zoning, expanding 8-30g affordable housing regulation, then vote for Michelle. I don't know Ms. Embree Ku, and I've no doubt she means well; but she will vote the party line.

Likewise, I don't know Mitch other than a handshake years ago, but every time I've written to him about a concern, without fail I’ve received a lengthy, thoughtful, detailed response. In conclusion, I think it would be tragic for our district to lose a representative of Mitch’s qualities and I urge you to consider that a vote for Michelle Embree Ku solidifies the one party rule here in CT where the only “steady habit” we have is raising taxes, increasing living expenses, and creating more regulation.

James Swift

Sandy Hook