To The Editor:

I am supporting Rob Blanchard for State Senate because I believe the 28th-District needs someone who understands our communities, understands the challenges families are facing, and has the experience to get things done in Hartford.

Rob’s connection to the District runs much deeper than currently being my neighbor. Like many young families navigating Connecticut’s tough housing market, Rob and his wife spent years searching for a place to put down permanent roots before buying their home in Newtown. Before becoming a Newtown neighbor, Rob lived in Fairfield — also part of the 28th-District — where his wife, her parents and grandparents were raised. He has called this district home for roughly twice as long as his opponent.

Rob has also served at both the local and state levels, from Fairfield’s Representative Town Meeting to senior roles in state government. He understands how decisions in Hartford affect our towns and families, and he understands those pressures personally — the cost of a mortgage, property taxes, utility bills, groceries and childcare.

I also serve alongside Amybeth Laroche on the Newtown Board of Finance. I know her, I respect the work we do together, and I have seen firsthand her approach to local government. I believe Rob brings a valuable combination of experience, perspective and a willingness to work with people who don’t always agree.

That matters to me. Our communities need a Senator who will listen, find common-ground and focus on making Connecticut more affordable for its families. Rob understands representing this District means bringing those experiences together.

I’m supporting Rob because I believe he will bring that approach to the State Senate and put his experience to work for Newtown, Fairfield, Easton and Bethel.

My own opinions.

Please vote-November 3!

Jim Gaston

Newtown