To The Editor:

This election was a difficult one for many Republicans across the country, and Newtown was no exception. Yet election results should never diminish our appreciation for those who have chosen to serve. As a community, we owe a debt of gratitude to State Representatives Mitch Bolinsky and Marty Foncello, of the 106th and 107th Assembly Districts, for their years of dedicated service to Newtown and the State of Connecticut.

During one of Connecticut's most challenging fiscal crises, when education funding was on the chopping block and uncertainty loomed over our municipalities, Mitch played a key role in helping pass an unprecedented bipartisan budget that helped restore our state's fiscal stability. Both Mitch and Marty consistently advocated for our students, seniors, parents, and taxpayers, advancing meaningful legislation that earned support from both sides of the aisle. Perhaps even more importantly, they made constituent service the hallmark of their public careers.

Throughout his fourteen years in office, there was hardly a community event that Mitch did not attend. Time and again, residents found answers, guidance, and solutions because of the relationships he built and the respect he earned across state government. His accessibility, dedication, and unwavering commitment to helping others set a standard that all public servants should strive to emulate.

Marty's service has been equally distinguished. From serving our country as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army, to helping keep our nation safe in the aftermath of 9/11 through his work with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and later serving the people of Newtown as our state representative, he has devoted his life to public service. His commitment to country, community, and neighbors is inspiring, and I am grateful to know him.

I would also like to thank Amybeth Laroche for the vigorous campaign she ran for the State Senate. She took on a difficult race with determination, grace, and unwavering resolve. While the outcome was not what many of us hoped for, her hard work, countless hours of campaigning, and steadfast commitment to the residents of the 28th District did not go unnoticed. Amybeth brought energy, passion, and a clear focus on the concerns of district residents, and I remain hopeful that those concerns will be heard and addressed in Hartford during the coming legislative session.

Finally, I want to recognize the many volunteers who dedicated their time and effort to supporting all of our candidates during this election cycle. Campaigns are built on the work of neighbors, friends, and community members who believe enough in the democratic process to get involved, and their contributions deserve recognition and thanks.

Regardless of political affiliation or electoral outcome, public service matters. Newtown is a better place because Mitch Bolinsky and Marty Foncello chose to serve as our advocates in Hartford, and for that we will always be grateful.

Jeff Capeci

Chairman, Newtown Republican Town Committee