To The Editor:

Connecticut has had one-party governance (governor, senate, and house) for almost 16 years, with both the House and Senate having significant Democratic majorities for all but the 2017-2018 term. Prior to those two years, Connecticut’s fiscal health was dismal. Massive deficits were common, pensions were underfunded, and the “Rainy Day Fund” was depleted. Major tax hikes ensued. During those two years, when the single-minded majority could no longer dominate, legislation addressing the financial fiasco was passed and Connecticut was once again able to pay its bills without borrowing on its future.

Since 2019, we’ve seen the State shift back to single-minded dominance. It recently established a precedent of forcing curriculum providers on public schools rather than just setting standards, and it reduced the level of control towns have regarding land use. State leadership is now looking for ways to circumvent the financial practices (AKA fiscal guardrails) passed in 2017.

We need leaders who represent us all, who speak independently and more comprehensively. Today, such leaders are part of a diminishing minority. Three of those leaders currently represent Newtown. Mitch Bolinsky listens to all constituents, regardless of party, and works diligently to address their concerns. He also deeply understands the realities behind the lack of financial support for our schools. (See Mitch’s 09/11/2026 “Inconvenient” letter.) Marty Foncello is a critical, deliberative thinker who focuses on representing his entire community. Amybeth Laroche, while new, is one who will likely help ensure those with less voice will, at least, be heard. These three, if elected, will continue the work of minimizing single-minded representation.

Electing loyal Democrats, like Michelle Ku and Rob Blanchard, will only add to the supermajority. One hopes that they could keep an independent voice, but that is not how party politics work nowadays. In today’s world, voting for them would likely lead to more, not less, supermajority rule — more, not less, single-mindedness.

The upcoming term will almost certainly witness continued erosion of local control and fiscal prudence, potentially causing yet another governmental fiasco. Please vote for Mitch, Marty, and Amybeth to help curb single-minded supermajority domination.

Deborra Zukowski

Newtown