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To the Editor,

The Democratic primary for the 1st Congressional District is nearly upon us, and we have an important decision to make in who will represent us through one of the most challenging periods in modern American history.

John Larson has served Connecticut admirably, but he is no longer the right choice for the moment. This election is about who recognizes the most pertinent problems facing people today, and that is Luke Bronin. I had the privilege of hearing the congressional candidates speak on the issues: Luke led with affordability of daily living, fixing the healthcare system, the housing crisis, and abolishing ICE. He spoke on these, and these are the topics his campaign has placed front and center in his messaging and campaign website. Luke’s recognition and understanding of these increasingly suffocating issues contrast with John Larson’s campaign focus on social security. I trust Luke’s knowledge of consumer financial protection and work under Obama’s treasury department to help us emerge from this economically challenging period. I trust Luke’s moral compass to help us navigate issues like immigration reform and fighting the prevalent corruption in Washington.

I was a delegate at the Connecticut Democratic Convention for the 1st Congressional District, and as I watched the politics of that evening play out, I walked away newly supporting Luke Bronin. Luke Bronin gained the party nomination because of his convictions and voters believing his message is right for the moment. He earned it through knocking doors, making phone calls, and engaging with voters.  On the other hand, John Larson and his campaign worked with convention delegates to decide who would be on the ballot in an effort to split the ballot and be re-elected. It was backroom politics, and it was disappointing to see. The politics as usual has continued in the negative messaging coming out of the Larson campaign directed at Luke Bronin; whereas Luke Bronin’s messaging has been focused on the issues that matter. Because Luke Bronin is focused on the issues that matter.

Luke brings experience and accomplishments to the ballot that would translate well to the federal level Luke Bronin served as mayor in Hartford for eight years. He worked in anti-corruption in the military and continued that work in the Treasury Department investigating financial crimes. I encourage other Democrats to join me when early voting begins Aug. 3 to Aug. 9, or cast their ballots on Primary Day, Aug. 11, to vote for Luke Bronin.

Chris Tanski
West Hartford