I’m writing to share my recent experience door-knocking with Brandi Mandato, the Democratic State Senate candidate for District 34. Brandi’s kindness, intelligence, and warm charisma are inspirational, and our time together made me value her not only as a wonderful woman, but an established leader in our district.

I met up with Brandi at 11 a.m. in the neighborhood we had signed up to canvas. I’m 19 years old, and this was my first time having hands-on experience with a political campaign. Right off the bat, Brandi was equipped with a smile, a purse full of door hangers, and a list of all the houses that we were going to visit. We identified a route, and she confidently led us to the first door, ready for anything and everything.

For the next two hours, I watched and admired as Brandi met with members of our community and connected with every single one of them. She introduced herself, pet dogs, answered questions, and invited feedback, all while keeping an unshakable poise in the August heat. We met with people from many different backgrounds and political views, and Brandi was able to find common ground with all of them. She listened to each citizen’s concerns and suggestions, going so far as to write down what each person had to say so that she could better understand the people she’s representing. She wasn’t afraid to answer the hard questions; in fact, she welcomed them.

After door-knocking with her, I am even more assured of Brandi’s professionalism and love for District 34. I trust that she will do her best to support our community in the same way she goes about her campaign promotion: thoughtfully, purposefully, and most of all, genuinely.

Jane Leamon

North Haven