Fairfield RTM Leaders Issue Joint Statement In The Wake Of Recent Political Violence

FAIRFIELD, CT — In the wake of the murder of conservative advocate Charlie Kirk, the leaders of the Fairfield Representative Town Meeting have issued a joint statement denouncing political violence and committing to civil discourse among its members.

The statement, the text of which is below, follows a similar one made by First Selectwoman Christine Vitale. And it comes after the Fairfield Republican Town Committee called on one of its own RTM members, Melissa Longo, to resign after she made inflammatory comments about Democrats following Kirk's killing. Longo said last week that she will not resign.

We, the leaders of the Fairfield Representative Town Meeting, are deeply disturbed by the recent acts of political violence that have shaken our nation. We stand together — not as partisans, but as colleagues, citizens, elected officials, and most importantly neighbors — united in our unequivocal condemnation of these heinous acts. Violence has no place in our democracy. It must never be used to silence voices, suppress opinions, or advance political agendas, regardless of ideology.

As representatives of this community, we share a common purpose: to serve Fairfield and uphold the democratic values that bind us together. We call on all elected officials and leaders at all levels — and our community at large—to embrace civility in our public discourse and online interactions. We condemn hateful speech. Words matter.

We are committed to civil discourse, honest debate, and meaningful dialogue grounded in mutual respect. While policy disagreements are inevitable, we resolve to engage with dignity, inclusion, and grace. Let us all lead by example and work together respectfully to strengthen our democracy.

Fairfield RTM Leadership:

Liz Zezima
Majority Leader

Jeff Steele
Minority Leader

Sharon Pistilli
Deputy Majority Leader

Ken Astarita
Deputy Minority Leader

Marcy Spolyar
Moderator

Margaret Horton
Deputy Moderator