To The Editor:

At eighteen, I’m old enough to see the challenges facing our community, but young enough to wonder why we keep accepting the same results.

I decided to intern with the Newtown Democratic Town Committee because I believe my generation should do more than just complain about the future. Young people have ideas and energy, and we’re the ones who will have to live with the decisions being made today. We need leaders who are willing to listen, challenge the status quo, and turn their ideas into action.

For too long, we’ve seen the same problems persist under Mitch Bolinsky’s representation — unaffordable housing, frustrating traffic, and rising pressure on families from taxes. After 14 years, we should be asking a simple question: Are we better off, and is this the best we can do? Right now the answer is no.

That’s why I support Rob Blanchard, Michelle Embree Ku, and Julie Kerton. Connecticut needs thoughtful leadership and fresh solutions. Rob Blanchard understands the need to make Connecticut more affordable, focusing on housing costs, healthcare, and childcare. Michelle Embree Ku brings years of community service and a focus on property taxes, responsible housing policy, and traffic solutions; and Julie Kerton prioritizes housing, healthcare, and education.

These issues shape the future this generation inherits. What we do now determines whether we will be able to afford to stay in Connecticut, build careers, and raise families.

I’m getting involved because the future is in our hands, and it deserves more than Mitch Bolinsky. Vote for Rob Blanchard, Michelle Embree Ku, and Julie Kerton to bring a new generation of ideas, accountability, and meaningful change to Hartford.

Chase Podolsky

Sandy Hook