To the Editor:

The “vote” in Connecticut this Election Day, represents more than a choice between parties, policies, and/or personalities.  The focus most is guns, rifles and ammo. Those who stand tall living in a state with bipartisan gun control laws, are on one side of the issue. Those who stand tall in support of repeal of Connecticut's gun control laws, are on one side of the issue.  In a true sense, there is no other issue for Connecticut, and certainly not for Newtown, on November 4th.

Our state will be judged locally, nationally and worldwide on how Newtown votes on “guns,” via the gubernatorial election. Certainly, a vote for the Republicans will be viewed as a victory for the NRA, and a vote for Democrats will be viewed as a victory for current gun regulations in Connecticut. Our experiences with gun violence make the vote in Newtown both newsworthy and symbolic.  It is the premier issue that needs to be debated by the candidates... at least those who choose to debate... for as of this date, the GOP candidate has decided to skip the October 23rd debate.  That is unfortunate, if it holds true.

Choose carefully on November 4th.  You will be voting on the gun issue when you vote for governor ... by default!  All eyes across this country will be on Newtown, CT., and how the people vote ... and feel.

Sincerely,

Richard English

3 Curry Drive, Newtown                    October 22, 2014