Submitted by Helen and Dan FitzPatrick, Greenwich
We write to offer our endorsement of Ryan Fazio for reelection as State Senator representing the 36th state senate district.
First, some statistics.
As longtime Greenwich residents (Helen grew up in town and we raised our three children here), we have watched with concern and dismay as our state has lost — largely through self-inflicted means — its once vaunted position as a magnet for talented people and businesses seeking the twin benefits of New England charm and Yankee fiscal responsibility. Despite having the highest adjusted per capita income in the nation, Connecticut now ranks in the bottom half of all states in terms of fiscal responsibility (#30) and at almost the very bottom in terms of economic opportunity (#45) and infrastructure (#46; source: www.usnews.com/news/best-states/connecticut), affordability (#45) and economy (#46; source: www.wfsb.com/2022/08/15/best-states-live-where-ct-ranks/). The conclusion is obvious: we have been ill served by our leadership in Hartford for many years. Something must change.
A recent poll by WFSB and CT Insider indicates that the biggest concerns of likely voters fall in the categories of inflation/cost of living/economy and taxes/government spending, far ahead of social issues and public education (www.wfsb.com/2022/10/03/likely-voters-say-cost-living-is-most-important-issue-ahead-election-day/). Ryan understands this, and his campaign is laser-focused on these issues (www.ryanfazio.com/issues). He gets it, and he is committed to being part of the solution.
Second, some comments on the individual.
We have known Ryan personally for a number of years and have observed him in many different settings and circumstances. We have been impressed. He is bright, articulate, thoughtful, a good listener, fair minded, and a consensus builder. He can be forceful in advancing his positions, but is non-partisan. In his short time in office, he has already made an impact, sponsoring two bipartisan bills signed into law by the governor – CT HB05417, “An Act Concerning Juvenile Justice and Services,” and CT SB00002, “An Act Expanding Preschool and Mental and Behavioral Services for Children” (source: https://ballotpedia.org/Ryan_Fazio).
Our state is facing serious problems. We need serious solutions, focusing first and foremost on the issues of greatest concern to its residents. Ryan understands the issues, and his priorities are aligned with those expressed in the polls referenced above. He has a bright future ahead of him. We would like to see him continue in office, working hard to build a brighter future for our state and its people.