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07/05/2017 08:00 AMSal Maltese’s candidacy seems to be causing criticisms by not just Republicans, but Democrats as well. It's important to differentiate between national and local party affiliation, and from this the necessity to come together for a shared purpose in November.
On a national level, the issues are more broad and vast, yet divisive, as well as the rhetoric. On borders, defense, and international relations, we are divided clearly on language and leaders.
On a local level, the issues become more specific as well as shared between residents of any town. This is true of the rhetoric as well. It becomes less a right/left-wing agenda as it is about the day-to-day running of the town. Are the services we as taxpayers foot the bill for operating the way they should be? If not, are our elected officials accountable to the citizens and taxpayers of the town?
It's essential for us as citizens to come together not just to demand accountability, but to elect the change needed when these responsibilities aren't administered by those in charge. Having a surplus is nice, but when roads don’t get paved and snow doesn’t get plowed, people of all political stripes take notice. Locally, low taxes are something we all agree on. As taxpayers we expect results, but we expect fiscal responsibility as well; $700,000 and steadily rising in missing West-End development grants and a $900,000 deficit in our school budget is problematic, whether you're blue or red.
When I see trouble, I don’t stay silent because the person in charge and myself share a letter. “Policy over party, ideas over ideology”—a personal hero of mine.
As an East Haven resident and Republican, I am proud to endorse Salvatore Maltese as the Democratic candidate for mayor.
What matters most—a letter, or leadership?
Joseph S. Civitello, Jr.
Republicans For Maltese
East Haven