Actions and elections matter. Talk is cheap during election season. Actions reveal priorities. For example, Democratic legislators State Senator Ceci Maher and State Representative Lucy Dathan voted to pass housing bill HB5002. The Governor was right to veto it, recognizing that it failed to address legitimate concerns from municipalities. Their votes were not in New Canaan’s interests. Have the New Canaan Democrats who ran these candidates—campaigning on “local control” and New Canaan’s representation in Hartford—held them accountable for supporting HB5002? No.
I urge every resident to vote Republican for the proven, trusted leadership by New Canaanites who serve New Canaan. Under Republican leadership on the Board of Education, our schools have ranked among the top in Connecticut and the nation. Re-elect Hugo Alves, Phil Hogan, and Julie Toal—leaders who have consistently supported students and families. They led efforts to return children to classrooms, remove masks, address learning loss after COVID, and reduce cell phone distractions. They resisted passing fads and national talking points, keeping their focus on core academics and the wellbeing of students. Each has given deeply to this community through youth sports, non-profits, and school involvement. They listen to families, work collaboratively with teachers and administrators, and remain proven steadfast advocates for academic excellence and local engagement.
Republican leadership on the Town Council has kept taxes low, fully funded top-ranked schools, and defended New Canaan’s local interests in Hartford. The four Republican-endorsed Town Council candidates—Penny Young, Arvind Bajaj, Scott Gress, and Pavla Levin—bring decades of experience across town boards, commissions, and volunteer roles. Their service spans the Town Council, Assessment Appeals, Parks & Recreation, Ethics, and the Board of Education. They are active in numerous local non-profits and civic organizations. They have lived here for many years, raised families here, and continue to invest their time and expertise back into this town. Their dedication is proven, long-standing and measurable.
I have worked closely with Town Council candidate Pavla Levin through CT169Strong, advocating for workable housing policies, true local control of zoning, and improved affordability for residents statewide. Pavla is a disciplined thinker and a steadfast advocate for our community. She would be an outstanding addition to the Town Council. Please vote for Pavla Levin, Arvind Bajaj, Scott Gress, and Penny Young.
What distinguishes the Republican candidates is not rhetoric, but record. They have long demonstrated a commitment to serving this town—through action, not slogans. Their advocacy for New Canaan’s interests is consistent, not opportunistic. They are proven leaders who collaborate, listen, and place community over politics.
A state special session is scheduled for shortly after November’s local elections, with housing legislation expected to be on the agenda. There will be no opportunity for public hearings before passage, and residents have been given no details about what will be included. Ask your local and state Democratic representatives what’s in the bill and whether they intend to stand up for New Canaan’s interests.
Maria Weingarten
