To The Editor:

I drive by a big four-foot banner for the Republican candidate for the Connecticut 5th District of the US Congress. Battle dressed, military assault weapon in hand, less than a mile from Sandy Hook Elementary school.

A vivid reminder of why I’m voting for Jahana Hayes. Strong, firm, tenacious, and always upbeat. Not fear mongering, or threatening of force. She has carried and pushed the best Connecticut values in Congress. If you have followed Jahana, you know her passion for education, passion for giving every child opportunity to learn, grow and prosper. She has kept working to protect and revive programs for our children, for our future. Not a single-issue representative, Jahana admirably serves on the agriculture and labor and pension committees. Listen to what she says, and you’ll repeatedly hear “for all” and “everyone.” For me those are the Connecticut values I want expressed in Washington. The 5th district is “purple” and Jahana listens and is open to diverse ideas and needs. Jahana has drafted and pushed bills that were signed into law by presidents Trump and Biden. I also want to mention she researches the legislation she votes on. In Congress Jahana is there to govern, not grandstand and photo-op. She represents all of us.

Veterans deserve a lifetime of respect and support. I don’t know what message Mr. Shea, the Republican candidate intended to send using his warrior picture, but the message I’m getting is that he wants to be a loyal soldier for the Trump Administration. He won’t be representing Lichfield, Fairfield, or Newtown, he will represent the chaotic, reckless, force first and corrupt administration occupying the White House.

Don’t be lulled by polls and pundits. Join me in voting for Jahana Hayes.

Ned Simpson

Sandy Hook