Letter to the Editor: Setting the Record Straight in the 8th

To the Voters:

I am very concerned about a very misleading piece of negative literature that you may have received from Dan Seger attacking our State Senator, Kevin Witkos.  Let’s set the record straight.  

First, Kevin has served with distinction as a first responder for nearly three decades, including over 20 years as an officer in the Canton Police Department and 5 years as the chief of the Canton Volunteer Fire Department.  Day in and day out, Kevin was there for us putting his life and limb on the line for our safety and security. 

Second, in his time as a public servant—first on the local Board of Education, then as a State Representative, and now as our State Senator—Kevin has gained a well-earned reputation for representing his constituents with the highest standards of integrity.  Though they may have disagreed with Kevin on the issues, never before has one of Kevin’s opponents had the audacity to challenge his character.

Lastly, before accepting his job with Northeast Utilities, Kevin did the right thing: he went out of his way to first seek a ruling from the Office of State Ethics.  After considering all sides of the issue, the bi-partisan Citizen’s Ethics Advisory Board voted unanimously that Kevin’s employment with NU is consistent with the Code of Ethics and does not conflict with his position as State Senator.  Case closed.

Through his dedication to our community, Kevin Witkos has earned our vote.  With no record of his own to run on, it is disappointing that Dan Seger has resorted to these sorts of last-minute false attacks.  Don’t be fooled.  Please join me in supporting Kevin Witkos on Tuesday so we can return an honest hardworking public servant to the State Senate.

Sean Askham

Simsbury Selectman