To the Editor:

Recently, I wrote a letter for publication to the Danbury News Times lamenting the growing nastiness and unproductive nature of public discourse in national politics. Sadly, I see some of the same forces impacting our local politics.

As a ray of hope however, there are many people in town politics (and/or who would like to be) who apply rational analysis to the issues, and do what is best for this town, ahead of political alliances and personal vendettas. These are people who believe, as I do, that rational thought unites us, while angry political rhetoric and propaganda divides us. I strongly support these people for office because I believe that they are the ones who are in politics for all the right reasons. As we approach town elections I implore all of Newtown’s voters to cast their votes for this type of individual, regardless of the party to which you/they (voters or candidates) may belong.

I would especially like to draw attention to the efforts of Jan Lee Brookes, who is seeking reelection to the Legislative Council District 3. She has done a phenomenal job in her first term and I believe that allowing her (and people like her) to continue working for Newtown is in all of ours’ best interest. I am very proud to have known Jan for many years. She has always worked for positive change and I was thrilled to see her enter local politics. She does (and always has) stood for common sense, respectful dialogue, and unity of purpose. I also sincerely wish luck to all the other candidates who truly represent our whole town and not simply some fraction of it, or faction in it.

Randi Kiely

18 Botsford Hill Road, Newtown                              October 17, 2009