August 1, 2012, MILFORD/ ORANGE, CT - Pam Staneski, candidate for State Representative in the 119th Assembly District (Milford and Orange), came out today against any special interest endorsements.
Every election season special interest groups send out surveys for their possible endorsement, from labor organizations to business groups.
"Whether these special interest endorsements, as well intentioned as they maybe, help define the candidate and campaign, are in the eye of the beholder or in most cases the fine print. The job of a state legislator is not to work for the benefit of special interest groups – the job of a state legislator is to work for the people of her district. That’s exactly what I intend to do if elected to the State Legislature," said Staneski.
Endorsements come in all shapes and sizes. Some are a result of lengthy questionnaires and some are the result of closed-door discussions. But the fine print is that endorsements come in exchange for, or the promise of, the enactment of favorable laws, contractual concessions and budget funding for a particular interest group. Given the current financial troubles facing Connecticut; that is a tacit promise I am unwilling to make. I prefer instead to ask for the endorsement of the residents of Milford and Orange.
Connecticut is facing the deepest and most sever financial and unemployment crisis in since the Great Depression. Our State is still facing a $200 million deficit even after a 1.5 Billion historic tax hike in 2011. The fact that our children and seasoned workers are unable to find meaningful employment with state unemployment over 8% must be our focus.
Pam Staneski is a candidate for the 119th State Representative seat in Connecticut (http://www.pamforthe119th.org/).
She was elected to the Board of Education four consecutive terms and most recently served as a 5th District Alderman. During her 10 years in public service, Pam has become known for asking tough questions and demanding accountability while building consensus to get things done. Among her accomplishments are co-founding the Milford Prevention Council (and helping to secure a multi year federal grant for them), serving as President of Milford Promise, helping the newly formed Boys & Girls Club of Milford secure a location and lease in their second year, serving on the Clean Energy Task Force (and helping to develop a comprehensive energy plan for Milford), being part of her children’s school PTAs, as well as the little league team Mom. She has supported numerous local non-profits, both professionally at the United Way, and through personal service.
