Opinion: Florsheim Is the Choice of Democrats

Submitted by Susan Guckin.
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As a member of the Democratic Town Committee and supporter of Ben Florsheim, I was surprised to get an email from the campaign of Republican candidate Seb Giuliano.

I can say with certainty that I did not sign up for emails from Mr. Giuliano, and did not consent to my contact information being shared with his campaign. When I called Republican headquarters, they could not tell me how they obtained it and said someone would call back. No one has called.

Another thing I can say with certainty is that I will not be supporting Mr. Giuliano. In his email, he says that Democrats should realize it is in their best interest to cast their vote for a Republican like him. I think he underestimates Middletown Democrats and overestimates himself.

Here are just a few reasons this Democrat will be supporting Ben Florsheim: 

Mr. Florsheim has demonstrated a dedication to ensuring our schools are among the best in the State. Mr. Giuliano was the author of a budget amendment that would have flatlined education funding, laid off teachers, and caused class sizes to grow dramatically.

In a recent ECOIN meeting Mr. Giuliano denied climate change and became combative when thoughtfully challenged on his position. We need a Mayor who has an eye on protecting our environment and works to make Middletown sustainable.

I am appalled by the Republican Party and its values. I have heard that Mr. Giuliano and his team have said that local politics have nothing to do with national politics-- implying Democrats should look the other way on their right-wing views and support for Donald Trump. I disagree wholeheartedly.

It is impossible to enumerate all the reasons that I support Ben over Seb. I am proud to be another Democrat supporting Ben Florsheim.