CT Primary Voters Choose Pragmatism Over Progressivism
- 3 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Registered Republicans and Democrats finished voting in their respective primaries yesterday, August 11. The results suggest that Connecticut voters may be pushing back against progressive policies that have hindered the state’s growth.
Democratic Primary
Democratic Governor Ned Lamont, a two-term incumbent and Greenwich resident, won by a decisive margin over state representative Josh Elliott from Hamden. With this outcome, primary voters sent a clear message that Elliott was too far to the progressive left for the statewide ticket, effectively taking his proposed wealth tax off the table. Greenwich taxpayers can breathe a sigh of relief. In November, Lamont will have to defend his governing record against a younger, more affordability-minded Republican State Senator—and fellow Greenwich resident—Ryan Fazio.
Republican Primary
Michael Goldstein, a Greenwich physician and attorney, won a major victory in the primary for Connecticut's 4th U.S. Congressional seat, defeating Wilton hockey coach Dan Miressi. Voters opted for an economically focused, hardworking candidate with concrete policy solutions. Goldstein now heads into a competitive general election match-up against 17-year entrenched Democratic incumbent and Greenwich resident, Congressman Jim Himes.
The November Line-up
In November, Greenwich voters will face the following matchups:
Governor: Ned Lamont (D-Incumbent) vs. Ryan Fazio (R)
4th Congressional District: Jim Himes (D-Incumbent) vs. Michael Goldstein (R)
36th State Senate District: Joe Kelly (R) vs. Jill Oberlander (D)
149th State House District (NW Greenwich): Representative Tina Courpas (R-Incumbent) vs. Amiel Goldberg (D)
150th State House District (Harbor Greenwich): Steve Meskers (D-Incumbent) vs. Jonathan Goldstein (R)
151st State House District (Mid Greenwich): Hector Arzeno (D-Incumbent) vs. Mike Mason (R)
Why Does it Matter
Under Democratic supermajority control, Connecticut continues to grapple with economic stagnation, high tax burdens, and some of the steepest utility costs in the country. Furthermore, state-level immigration policies place additional pressure on local healthcare systems, public education resources, and housing availability.
Between the Lines: The stakes for Greenwich in this election cycle could not be higher. Mark your calendar and make sure your voice is heard at the polls this November.