The West Hartford RTC said that it is ‘poised for change,’ endorsing a dynamic slate to of candidates that features new energy, proven leaders, and real-world solutions to restore balance to town government.

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The West Hartford Republican Town Committee (RTC) proudly announces its full slate of endorsed candidates for Town Council and the Board of Education, selected at the RTC’s official endorsement meeting on July 21 at Town Hall.

This year’s election brings together a standout group of candidates – fresh thinkers with bold ideas, alongside experienced leaders with a strong track record. It reflects a clear move toward practical, solution-oriented leadership and underscores the continued growth and vitality of the Republican Party in West Hartford.

The Republican slate for Town Council includes:

• Al Cortes, incumbent and common-sense community voice
• Dr. Gayle Harris, current Board of Education member and tireless education advocate
• Kyle Zelazny, attorney and previous Board of Education candidate
• Ben Lewis, local business executive and first-time candidate
• John Lyons, social media civic leader and podcast host – former Democrat turned Republican supporter
• Dr. Jason Wang, addiction medicine physician, Bike West Hartford Board Member and former Democrat turned Republican supporter

The RTC also endorsed Miriam Bleich, a respected advocate for children, as its representative for the Board of Education.

“For too long, one-party rule has dominated our Town Council and Board of Education,” said RTC Chairman Shawn Daly. “And while West Hartford remains a wonderful place to live, longtime residents know that under current Democratic leadership, the cost of living has soared, fiscal discipline has evaporated, community voices are ignored, infrastructure is overlooked, and out of control property overdevelopment continues. The time has come to bring balance, transparency, and accountability back to town government.”

This year’s Republican ticket includes two former Democrats who, like many residents, are walking away from extreme progressive policies that are making West Hartford increasingly unaffordable and unsustainable for working families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

“Unlike our opponents, we’re not interested in stale talking points or national scare tactics,” said Daly. “Instead of distracting voters with political theater, we’re focused on real issues and solutions – improving educational outcomes, attracting new businesses, lowering taxes, and restoring civil discourse in public service.”

With early voting and Election Day approaching, the Republican candidates will be actively engaging voters in neighborhoods across West Hartford – listening to concerns, offering clear policy goals, and working to earn the trust of every resident regardless of party affiliation.

“We’re excited to have Miriam Bleich, as the tip of the spear for our Board of Education efforts,” said RTC member Ari Schaffer. “As a parent who is an advocate for children with deep knowledge of the challenges facing students today, Miriam brings expertise and compassion that will elevate the conversation and outcomes in our schools.”

The West Hartford RTC invites voters to learn more about our team, our priorities, and how to get involved by visiting www.whgop.com or contacting us at [email protected].

This November, voters face a clear choice: more of the same, or a new direction. The West Hartford Republican candidates stand ready to deliver real results.

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