To the Editor:

I am a registered voter with no party affiliation. I want a democracy — local and nationally — that I can be proud of which to be a part. I am voting for Jahana Hayes for US House of Representatives.

I play a little game whenever I read, hear, or see a political ad this time of year. I count how often my least-favorite terms are used: “Will work across the aisle,” “A Washington outsider,” “Will fight for us,” or “Comes from a modest upbringing.” And there are more. I’ve concluded these phrases are so overused as to be rendered meaningless, because none of them easily translate into impactful outcomes for us.

So that means it is more important than ever to do a deep dive on the candidates’ specific capabilities, positions, character, and the ability to represent and lead.

And in what is now an historic, unprecedented combative environment, it would be short-sighted to select a representative that only aims to make certain our district’s wants and needs are represented in national policy.

The stakes are much higher than our district or even our state. Over the last two years, the impact a single district can have on broader national outcomes has swelled. Like healthcare. Like public education. Like human rights. Like gun violence. Like infrastructure. And more.

So strong leadership is critical. And that requires someone that can establish presence in a small meeting room or assembly; can separate fact-based conclusions from uninformed opinions; and can co-craft legislation. Our representation needs to be very selective and deliberate when debating causes and plights.

That’s why I am voting for Jahana Hayes for US House of Representatives District 5.

Michael Giudice

4 Whippoorwill Hill Road, Newtown         October 22, 2018