Republican Candidates for Governor Respond To the State of the State With Hypocrisy

Hartford, CT – Republican gubernatorial candidates were quick to offer their opinions of Governor Malloy’s State of the State address. While Democrats have applauded Governor Malloy for his progressive, pro-worker policies and his focus on fairness, Republican candidates have said the Governor didn’t address real issues and was unfair to businesses and taxpayers. Democrats are putting forth solutions and fighting for progress–what about Republicans?

• Mayor Mark Boughton thought “the fairest thing we can do for Connecticut residents right now is to give them economic opportunity,” but has stated he is not in favor of raising the minimum wage. [Hartford Courant, 3/23/10]
• Shelton Mayor Mark Lauretti said that “what political people fail to acknowledge is that when you do not have your financial health you cannot help anyone.” Mayor Lauretti is not including himself when he refers to political people, but this gubernatorial bid marks his 14th run for office.
• Tim Herbst said “he never heard the Governor talk about fairness to the taxpayer,” while Tim Herbst is accused of using taxpayer money to hire a private investigator to look into a political opponent for political gains.
• Mayor Erin Stewart said the Governor’s speech “did not address the state of the state.” Governor Malloy addressed the gains we’ve made in rights for workers, including a higher minimum wage and paid sick leave. Does Erin Stewart consider the state of workers relevant to the state of our state?

“It’s disappointing that Republican candidates for governor don’t think advancing the interests of middle class workers and Connecticut families is important to the state,” said Connecticut Democratic Party Communications Director Christina Polizzi. “Connecticut Democrats are focused on policies that will help workers and families thrive–like paid sick leave, a higher minimum wage, and putting an end to workplace sexual harassment. Voters in Connecticut have a clear choice in this election: enablers who will further the Trump agenda or Democrats who will fight back and continue our progress.”