As Paul S. Herrnson points out in Congressional Elections “Contemporary House elections are usually fought on local issues” (p.88). Which is true for the race going on with Connecticut’s 5th district, but also at the same time the two candidates are focusing on the main issues at are affecting their district and the larger national issues that play a role in it.
This can be seen in both candidates campaign websites, starting with incumbent Murphy. On his website under there are articles from 2009/2010 which show about $3 million in grants to Connecticut towns like Torrington and Waterbury to improve roads and town centers. Other than that there was not too much talk on specific topics for Connecticut but more on major topics like education, energy, government reform, and healthcare which are relate well to Connecticut and its residents.
Caligiuri on the other had, has barely any information on what kind of change he wants to bring to Connecticut. He has more lofty proposals dealing with Iran, Israel, and handling government reform (Proposed strategy for Israeli Relations and Government Reform). The only thing Caligiuri can talk about is what he disagrees with on how Murphy has handled issues that have come across the House’s desk. Also riding on the coattail of ‘Dump Dodd 2010’ movement, there is a Dump Murphy 2010 website (link). Which Caligiuri has made mention to on his facebook a couple of times.
In all there both candidates mostly focus on major national topics that have an affect on Connecticut without going too in depth on issues, unlike Caligiuri who has drafted plans on some national topics. The only advice I can give the two candidates are to become more specific on how they can help Connecticut, and also at the same time keep an eye out for mud throwing to come as November 2nd comes closer.
Signs from around the CT-5
*Added 9/26*
After sending an email to both Murphy and Caligiuri about how they sand on issues that are important to CT-5, this is what I have gotten so far.
Dear Andrew,
Thank you for reaching out to Sam’s campaign, and we’re thrilled you chose our race to cover for your class!
I am not sure we are focusing on any Connecticut-specific issues because Sam’s candidacy is for federal office and therefore is focused on legislation that applies to the nation as a whole. Having said that, there is no doubt that the policies made at the federal level have an enormous impact on states, and certainly on residents in Connecticut’s Fifth District. For example, if the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts are allowed to expire, the average family in our District will face paying an additional $1,800 in taxes next year. This is sadly getting closer to happening as Congress is not addressing this issue until after the elections – they refuse to make the tough decisions in a tough election year.
Sam’s priorities are growing jobs and getting the economy back on track. He opposes raising taxes on anyone, especially in this very difficult time, and disagrees with Chris Murphy’s insistence on letting them expire. Sam would also vote to repeal and/or defund the $1 trillion health care bill, and replace it with fiscally responsible health care reform that does not grow the size and cost of government.
I hope this is helpful, and best of luck with your project!
All best,
Tiffany
Tiffany Romero Grossman
Communications Director
Sam Caligiuri for Congress (CT-5)
Could Caliguiri's focus on national issues be explained as an attempt to stand out against his opponent who has the incumbent advantages? It seems as if the issues that he is focusing on would grab the attention of voters who are not politically active or informed and more responsible to national issues rather than local. Or maybe Caliguiri is quieter on local issues because he's uninformed. Either way, he doesn't seem to be very concerned with satisfying the concerns and expectations of his district
ReplyDeleteIt's nice that you got a response from Calgiurui's communications director. I think it might be necessary to look further than just each candidates campaign websites to get an accurate perspective on what issues they are dealing with. For instance you should check out Murphy's voting record.
ReplyDeleteThats really great that you got a response from Calgiurui's camp. I think its interesting that they said so specifcally that they are not going to focus on local issues, when every thing that we have learned so far makes it seem like localized issues are key to winning an election. Hope this doesnt foreshadow Calgiurui.
ReplyDeleteThe fact that they said they will not be focusing on local issues really makes a voter think about their behavior. I think it's interesting that they so freely stated that and act as if it isn't a problem. Do they realize they represent LOCAL areas? I think it is a perfect example of a career politician and not someone who wants to better the people they represent.
ReplyDeleteIts interesting in this election how many candidates seem to be focusing on big national issues because that is not typically the case. In my opinion many new candidates without voting records to lean on are talking about big national changes that they want to bring about but I like that Chris Murphy is still focusing on issues that will directly and quickly impact CT residents. This is important in our congressmen and many voters seem to be forgetting that lately, expecting their local representative to wave their wand and fix huge issues such as the economy and healthcare - they have to begin a little bit closer to home.
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