To The Editor:

For the past six months I have had the pleasure of campaigning with our Democratic candidates, Michelle Embree Ku, State Representative candidate for the 106th district, Rob Blanchard, State Senate candidate for the 28th district, and Aaron Zimmer, State Representative candidate for the 107th district.

I have witnessed first hand the tremendous commitment that these three individuals have put into their races. Their dedication to representing our town has been more than evident through their no nonsense approach to diligently knocking on doors, talking to people, making phone calls and making every effort to get their message out and also getting to know what is important to the Newtown community.

They bring fresh ideas on what is important to the people of Newtown. Better healthcare, protecting the environment and open spaces, strengthening education, tackling the rising costs of utilities, growing our economy and a more business friendly environment, strengthening our gun safety laws, and protecting women’s reproductive rights. These are difficult issues that require the drive and determination from our representatives. It is that type of drive, that willingness to work that is needed to make a better Newtown, and a better state.

Our state is facing many challenges that affect our town and we can not continue to be represented in the same business as usual manner that our long serving representatives have shown.

We need fresh ideas, outlooks and the energy and desire to put those ideas to good use and fuel actual substantive change in Hartford.

It’s time for a change — vote Embree Ku, Blanchard, and Zimmer.

Alex Villamil

Sandy Hook