Editor’s note: following is an opinion submitted by Westport resident Rozanne Gates.
I have no doubt that the people of Westport have better sense than to elect another Republican to the office of First Selectman, unless the Republican nominee is willing to denounce the tyranny emanating from the White House and promise to protect Westport from any invasive actions by the Republican government in Washington. Has anyone asked him if he will do so, if it comes to that?
It is not news that Donald Trump is turning this country from a democracy into an authoritarian state as dictated in Project 2025. Westport is not immune to the effects of this disastrous president and his equally disastrous policies. I for one do not want to see National Guard troops trying to take over the streets of Westport as they were ordered to do in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Chicago, Portland, and possibly San Francisco. Can you imagine Westport with a Republican First Selectman giving his approval to any unconstitutional directive from an out-of-control Republican president? Again, I for one do not want to risk that happening.
Westport needs a First Selectman with the strength and grounded conviction of defending the rule of law and able to stand up to the dictates of the Republicans in Washington. We need a First Selectman who is first and foremost willing to defend this country against all enemies both foreign and Republican. Westport must always stand on the side of liberty, free speech, and enforcement of the Constitution. After all, the only thing that makes us great is our power to “hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
Taking all of the above into consideration and adding my knowledge of his abilities to lead and make deliberated and intelligent decisions, I am voting for David Rosenwaks for First Selectman on Tuesday November 4. I hope you will do the same.
Rozanne Gates
North Avenue
Westport
I completely agree with Rozanne Gates — the danger of electing a Republican First Selectman is real. National politics have shown us just how far today’s Republican Party is willing to go, and Westport can’t afford to take that risk locally.
That’s why this election matters so much. Like it or not, we live in a two-party system. The only team working together to bring experienced, pragmatic leadership to Westport is the Democratic ticket — Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich. They’re problem solvers who care deeply about keeping our town safe, well-run, and welcoming for everyone.
A vote for David Rosenwaks may sound independent, but the math is simple: a vote for Rosenwaks is a vote for the Republicans. This November, let’s keep Westport moving forward with leaders who share our values and have the experience to get things done — Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich.
It’s not surprising that local democrats have really leaned into this “spoiler” argument in an attempt to preemptively blame David for Kevin’s loss, but it doesn’t reflect reality. David is not “helping” one party or the other — I’ll use myself as a case in point, as someone who would have otherwise voted for Don if not presented with a 3rd much better choice.
Let’s be honest: the Democratic ticket is just weak this year. Until David entered the race, there was true concern that Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore’s Republican Select Board would cruise to another term without real competition. David’s candidacy has given Westport a genuine choice — and a glimmer of hope that we don’t have to settle for the status quo.
Our local challenges — schools, infrastructure, planning, finances — aren’t Republican or Democratic issues. They’re Westport issues. And too often, under both parties, we’ve seen mismanagement and gridlock rather than solutions.
The truth is, independents represent the real values of Westport: practical, collaborative, and focused on what works. A vote for David is not a vote for Republicans — it’s a vote for transparent, independent leadership that will finally move Westport forward.
Why did Kevin Christie recuse himself from the controversial vote on the soccer coach? He was the only member of the Board of Education who did not commit himself to an important vote. After taking the easy way out on that vote, now he wants to become First Selectman? I’m voting Independent for David Rosenwaks for some real change.
Kevin Christie correctly recused himself to avoid any appearance of impropriety arising from a conflict of interest based on his connection with the soccer program. He should be APPLAUDED for caring enough to follow the ethics rules… THAT’s a refreshing change. Had he not recused, you would probably be criticizing him now for having a hidden conflict. Can you articulate any other reason to vote for the inexperienced Mr. Rosenwaks, who courageously has never once stood up to speak during his RTM term ? Is that your definition of Profile in Courage ?
Don O’Day is not a registered republican. He is unaffiliated. He has publicly said on Dan Woog’s blog that he is NOT a Trump supporter (July 14). The CT Post reported that he has not voted for a republican in a national election since the Reagan era (also dated July 17). I urge you to read those articles so you are better informed on his stance when it comes to local politics.
He is listed on the GOP ticket. He is in the red line on the ballot. The Republican Party has let down the USA and the world. Without the GOP we would not have these many threats to our democracy and way of life.
Anyone who rides on the coattails of the GOP is complicit. Don O’Day is complicit in the Trump Administration atrocities being committed in local communities around the USA.
How about some dialogue on a candidate for the Board of Education. His name is Robert Harrington and he is running as a write-in-candidate. Mr. Harrington was the only member of the Board of Education to question the superintendent’s handling of the soccer coach and seriously and courageously questioned how the Board of Education unfairly treated the coach. There seems to be a lack of dialogue on this issue and I wonder why. A write in candidate won a seat on the Board of Education in the last election and Mr. Harrington can win in the upcoming election. I’m not interested in the other candidates for the Board of Education but I look forward to writing in Robert Harrington’s name.
Robert Harrington is a role model for other Republicans: speak truth to power and walk away from a party whose ideology has become dangerous to the wellbeing of Americans everywhere.
While I heartily agree it is important to step up now to repel the autocracy-in-progress foisted upon us by The Republican Party, electing an inexperienced independent candidate is not the way.
This is not a fight for the inexperienced, or the faint of heart. And numbers are going to matter. Hugely.
Our two-party system is not perfect, but it’s what we got. Now is not the time to daydream about a non partisan lifestyle. We will preserve our hard fought freedoms only by building up our number of freedom fighters— and that means unifying behind the Democratic Party.
As for local politics, we’ve seen the damage already of what the elite “party of autocracy” has wrought on Westport. I have been on the firing lines of many local issues as a citizen watchdog.
It ain’t pretty — from clearcutting mature habitat plantings to bulldozing the Community Garden, increasing taxes 4% on just one appropriation, threatening to pave over Jesup Green, failing to resolve downtown parking, appointing ineffectual sycophants to important town bodies, and causing multiple Freedom of Information complaints to be filed at the state FOI Commission. This list of bad governance is long.
Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich have been engaged,
paying attention, and stepping up to to represent and lead with distinction. They have the right vision and roadmap to fix the leadership void in Westport.
For far too long, the GOP candidates created divisive policies and cause for unprecedented distrust in our elected leadership.
The independent candidate left the Democratic Party to pursue a personal ambition and lacks any leadership track record. His candidacy serves only to dilute the vote in a “numbers matter” election. He can help by stepping down now.
Kevin and Amy are not afraid to stand up to national issues that have immense consequence on our freedoms and way of life locally.
Kevin and Amy’s track records are beyond reproach. They bring proven leadership, financial acumen, land use expertise and shared values that put Westport residents first among competing interests.
Vote for real change now. Vote for Kevin and Amy
Toni, As John McEnroe would say, “You can’t be serious.”
Do you remember the year 2018 when Will Haskell first ran for State Senator against the longtime Republican incumbent, Toni Boucher? The story begins when Will asked me to meet with him in January 2018 at Sherwood Diner. Will was at that time a 21-year-old student at Georgetown University in Washington and scheduled to graduate in May 2018. He wanted to know more about how I was successful in helping getting the National Popular Vote bill passed in Connecticut. He and I were having a lively conversation when he revealed to me that he was thinking about running for State Senator against Toni Boucher. My immediate response was “I will support you every step of the way, Will, if you are in it to win it. Otherwise, don’t even try.”
Toni, Will and I ran into a lot of resistance but you know how the story ends. So many people were rejecting him just on the basis of his youth and INEXPERIENCE. But Will turned out to be a very effective legislator and a genuine gift to the people of his district, a district that now is honored to have Ceci Maher as its Senator. By what standard was Will Haskell judged and elected? Certainly not based on his EXPERIENCE in governing. The public sensed that there was something brilliant about young Will Haskell. And right now the people of Westport are sensing that there is something brilliant about David Rosenwaks and people are elated that they are being given a choice and not an order.
I am a lifelong Democrat and proud of it. I am grateful to David for making the choice to run. He is dedicated to this town and not to a political party. David is giving us all the right to choose for ourselves. In my opinion,David Rosenwaks is by far the best candidate for First Selectman.
While the sentiment expressed in Rozanne Gates’ letter resonates with many, particularly those concerned about the national direction of the Republican Party, it overlooks a critical point: the value of local governance transcends national party lines. Westport deserves a leader who is not beholden to partisan politics but one who listens to all constituents, evaluates issues with a clear, independent mind, and prioritizes solutions that benefit our community as a whole. That leader is David Rosenwaks.
The assertion that voting for an independent like Mr. Rosenwaks is akin to supporting Republican ideals is not only erroneous but shortsighted. Mr. Rosenwaks does not represent a return to Republican rule but a departure from the entrenched partisan gridlock that has too often bogged down meaningful progress in our town. By running as an Independent, he offers Westport a genuine alternative to the politics of division—one that embraces pragmatic problem-solving over ideological rigidity. It is, perhaps, one of the most courageous stances to take in an environment where party loyalty often trumps the ability to critically assess each issue on its own merits.
What is most concerning, however, is the repeated undermining of Mr. Rosenwaks’ experience. Critics argue that his relative newness to local politics and his lack of a long political track record disqualify him from leadership. But in truth, his lack of allegiance to a particular political faction is exactly what qualifies him. Westport’s political machinery, much like that of many towns across the nation, has become increasingly polarized and mired in partisanship. It is no longer enough to simply accept the status quo or toe the party line. We need a leader who can see beyond these divides and make decisions based on the needs of the community, not the demands of a political party. Mr. Rosenwaks has demonstrated the intellectual acumen, empathy, and leadership necessary to chart a new path forward for our town. His independence is an asset, not a liability.
The claim that Mr. Rosenwaks’ candidacy is “a vote for the Republicans” fails to acknowledge the broader context of local politics. The issues facing Westport are not Democrat or Republican—they are Westportian. Whether it’s improving infrastructure, strengthening local schools, addressing affordable housing, or preserving our town’s unique character, these are challenges that require thoughtful, non-partisan solutions. To frame Mr. Rosenwaks’ candidacy as a spoiler for the Democratic ticket is to reduce the complexity of our local elections to a simplistic partisan battle. It’s not about what label a candidate wears; it’s about what they stand for. And Mr. Rosenwaks stands for integrity, transparency, and a deep commitment to the betterment of Westport.
Furthermore, while I understand the concerns about national politics and the desire to resist any potential autocratic tendencies from Washington, it is critical to separate the national from the local. Westport deserves a First Selectman who is capable of navigating local issues with a steady, impartial hand—not one who allows partisan interests to cloud judgment or compromise the well-being of our community. Mr. Rosenwaks is exactly that type of leader. His candidacy represents an opportunity for Westport to reject the divisive politics that have consumed national debates and instead embrace a future of unity, collaboration, and progress.
Lastly, I take issue with the assertion that David Rosenwaks is “inexperienced” or that he somehow lacks the requisite leadership qualifications. This criticism is not rooted in fact but in a fear of change. As someone who has contributed to numerous initiatives in both professional and civic spheres, Mr. Rosenwaks has demonstrated the capacity to lead with vision and empathy. His focus on listening to all voices in our community, coupled with his professional expertise, positions him well to lead Westport into the future. We do not need another politician beholden to party ideology—we need a leader who will put the people of Westport first.
In conclusion, the upcoming election is an opportunity for Westport to choose a new direction—one that embraces unity over division, progress over stagnation, and solutions over rhetoric. David Rosenwaks represents the type of leadership we need to address the challenges of today and prepare for the opportunities of tomorrow. I encourage my fellow Westporters to consider not just the labels, but the substance behind the candidates. A vote for David is a vote for the future of Westport.
I fail to see any specific accomplishments of Mr. Rosenwacks aside from being able to self-fund an independent campaign and get his friends to say nice things about him.
But, please enlighten us beyond his music videos, which are of questionable success.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRDWPuZYdUI
David is a charming fellow, to be sure, and I like him a lot, though he failed on his last campaign promise to support community gardeners. He didn’t stand up to Don O’Day deceptions then, and he can’t now.
Dear Ms. Simonetti,
I write in response to the recent post, which, while expressing sentiments that resonate with many, overlooks a crucial element in understanding the heart of Westport’s current political landscape: the power of community engagement. While Mr. Rosenwaks’ candidacy is lauded for its promise of independence from partisan divides, it is equally important to recognize the actions that reflect his genuine commitment to our town’s well-being.
In recent weeks, Mr. Rosenwaks personally walked door-to-door to meet with well over 1,000 homes in Westport, a remarkable feat that exemplifies his dedication to connecting with residents on a grassroots level. Through these efforts, he ensured that our neighbors were informed, heard, and engaged in the future of our town. This personal investment in understanding the needs of the community goes far beyond the typical political campaign and demonstrates a true commitment to service that I believe is vital for a First Selectman.
In addition, I had the privilege of hosting a charity event to support Ukraine, where an invitation was extended to all political parties. Mr. Rosenwaks was the only candidate to attend. More than just attending, however, he immediately volunteered to help dish out chili and stayed to assist with the cleanup after the event. His involvement didn’t stop there—later that same evening, he went on to volunteer at the Lobster Fest. These actions are a testament to his selfless spirit and willingness to contribute in ways that go beyond words. It’s clear that Mr. Rosenwaks values service over political calculation.
I have always believed that actions speak louder than words. While it’s easy to critique a candidate based on qualifications or past affiliations, it is far more telling to observe how they show up for the community. I’ve seen Mr. Rosenwaks demonstrate through his actions, time and again, his deep-rooted commitment to the people of Westport.
I do not speak ill of other candidates, as I firmly believe that the strength of our community lies in mutual respect and civility. However, I do feel strongly that, as we approach this election, it is essential for us to focus on the substance of what each candidate has done—rather than just what they say they will do.
Westport deserves a leader who embodies integrity, empathy, and a commitment to progress, and Mr. Rosenwaks has shown, through his actions, that he is exactly that leader. As we head into this election season, I encourage my fellow Westporters to look beyond the surface and consider not just the candidates’ promises, but the real contributions they’ve made to our community.
Dr. Donofrio
I appreciate the vigor with which you are supporting your friend. He is a good man, no question.
But, knocking on doors? That is not a reasonable qualification. We are all knocking on doors right now and engaging with voters. Among many other campaign efforts. Not sure what your point is here.
Give me some accomplishments, and a track record of leadership, or some concrete professional acumen. A few years in an entry level position in a bank; a short term silent partner in a private financial firm? A rock musician? No visible business or civil service experience in the past 10 years?
His best work, as far as I can tell, is being a fantastic and loving girl-dad and family man, and a Number One Mets fan.
I want him in public office. But he’s gotta earn his chops before being entrusted to run a $250 million budget, supervise the operation of an massive infrastructure that serves 27,000 residents, oversee 900 employees including police, fire and EMS, and another 900 in the schools. This is a big and complex job. Some days, it’s a life-and-death job for townspeople. This is not a game.
It is only right to focus on qualifications. Real qualifications beyond knocking on doors.
How did Kevin Christie “stand up to Don O’Day’s deceptions” from his seat on the Board of Education, which had months of meetings with the LLSBC?
I genuinely don’t understand the attempts to use the Community Gardens as a wedge issue on behalf of the Democratic slate, given Mr Christie’s more direct participation in the destruction of the Gardens.
I doubt there are m/any single-issue (Community Gardens) voters out there, but if there are, they certainly aren’t voting for O’Day OR Christie.
Voting Republican is dangerous, not because of the national landscape, because four more years of a “Tooker/Moore admiistration philosophy” would be a setback for Westport…and that is what we will get with O’Day/Moore. The irony is David Rosenwaks is the best representative for the Democrats. His leadership, courage, strategic planning and representation far exceeds that of Christie.
Democrats should vote for Rosenwaks to best advance their interests!
Thank you, Dr. Donofrio, for your passionate use of ChatGPT — and for engaging so energetically in our local conversation. But Westport’s reality tells a different story.
Our Democratic leadership has a long, proven record of collaboration and results. On the Planning & Zoning Commission, the Board of Finance, and the Board of Education, Democrats have worked hand-in-hand with Republicans to keep our town strong, well-managed, and forward-looking.
That teamwork is exactly what’s at stake in this election. Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich represent experienced, practical, collaborative leadership — the kind that gets things done.
And let’s be honest about “independence and transparency.” On the RTM, so-called independence has too often meant taking no action when leadership was needed most. Is that independence — or indifference?
Westport thrives when experienced problem solvers lead with integrity and cooperation. For progress, not partisanship — vote for Christie and Wistreich.
Dear Mr. Propp,
Thank you for your response. To clarify, my comments were entirely my own—I did not use ChatGPT or any AI tool. I have been writing for years, including in national and international medical journals, and I am fully capable of expressing myself clearly and thoughtfully in public forums.
While I respect the importance of bipartisan cooperation, I believe Mr. Rosenwaks’ commitment to grassroots community engagement stands out. His actions—not just his words—demonstrate the kind of service-oriented leadership Westport needs.
I encourage voters to look beyond party lines and consider each candidate’s real contributions.
Best regards,
Louis Donofrio
Dear Mr. Propp,
I also find it interesting that the only responses including personal jabs or insinuations seem to come from those supporting the Democratic candidate. Healthy debate is essential in any election, but it should be rooted in respect, not sarcasm or dismissiveness.
Westport deserves a conversation focused on ideas, actions, and leadership — not on undermining others for having a different perspective. I remain committed to constructive dialogue and supporting candidates based on merit, not party loyalty.
Debates Tonight October 14th – Youth Commission 7:00 pm. Toquet Hall
October 16th (Thursday) Greens Farms Academy Westport Journal 6:30 pm. (register)
October 21 (next Tuesday) Westport Library Westport Chamber of Commerce 12:00 pm. (nice way to spend lunch)
October 21 (next Tuesday) Westport Library Westport Library Common Ground Initiative 6:00 pm ( dinner)
October 28 ( two weeks) Westport Library League of Women’s Voters 6:30 pm (dinner)
October 30th (two weeks 2 days) Saugatuck Congregational church Y’s Men 10:00 am (coffee)
Hope to see you all there!
Jimmy Izzo RTM 3
“All enemies both foreign and Republican”? Is this woman for real? Doesn’t she know that over a third of the town voted for Donald Trump? What does she recommend, that loyal Democrats go door to door and shoot their Republican neighbors? She must truly have TDS, I’m so sorry for her (and her family). And what about that peace in the Middle East (I know, he’s Hitler). The left-wing loonies have lost their collective(ist) minds. Vote for O’Day / Moore, they will lower not raise the temperature.
With regard to Mr. Rosenwaks, a number of his fellow RTM members of all political stripes have expressed concern related to his fitness for higher office, given his lack of experience.
Mr ODay – who also currently serves on the RTM – has more experience in Westport than Mr. Rosenwaks. But unfortunately that track record includes destroying a community garden, damaging the property value of citizen and ramming through a $113 million school appropriation (late and over budget) before residents could grasp the tax implications. As others have said, the ODay/Moore ticket will be ‘moore of what we’ve seen during the Tooker administration. It’s time we move forward, not stay stuck in the same ‘traffic jam.
By contrast, Kevin Christie is a strong, accomplished, selfless, thoughtful leader. His experience simply blows the other two candidates out of the water (which is why the other two candidates were never selected for the top ticket by the dems). In his 15 year career in finance, investment banking, corporate strategy and relationship management* (places like Madison Square Garden, Merrill Lynch, etc) Kevin handled deals cumulatively worth more than 80 times the size of Westport’s $500 million capital budget. By contrast during that same period Rosenwaks was an actor, musician, and personal investor.
Let’s get real Westport. Rosenwaks is a performer who wants to fast track to the top. He simply doesn’t want to do what it takes to earn him that seat.
Kevin Christie and Amy Wistreich are the skilled and dynamic team Westport needs.
*Kevin Christie – https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/og79rzfs4hnbla75bc1pc/kevin-Christie_Professional-Background_Oct-9-2025-lunch.mp4?rlkey=8grp1z0tsvj1c3uapzyig18db&dl=0
Ms Johnson:
I hate repeating myself (though I am surely not the only one!). In months of BOE meetings with the LLSBC, what single thing did Mr Christie do to attempt to prevent the destruction of the Community Gardens?
I will await your response!
The above comments regarding the danger of Republican representation in Westport is hilarious. Emulating the national Republican party by supporting control of our borders, accountability for criminals, low taxes and ending wars all over the world is to be avoided at all costs. Heaven forfend! Rest assured, unhinged lefties, despite valiant efforts by a local Republican administration to save you from yourselves, you will no doubt have many opportunities to be mugged, carjacked and taxed to death due to the mandated policies of Hartford. As for world peace, unlike the liberals of the past, you don’t seem to value that either.
To Ms. Wylie, The Republican government is mimicking Germany under Hitler. To dismiss this fact is to ignore the fact that under Donald Trump our country is falling apart under authoritarian rule. “Accountability for criminals”? Donald Trump is Criminal #1 – 34 Felony convictions. Please tell me how such a criminal can be in the White House? Invading American cities? Throwing innocent children into the back of vans and separating them from their parents? He is a convicted rapist. In my opinion, Donald Trump is the most despicable human being to ever step foot in Washington. Inciting a group of out-of-control traitors on Jan. 6, 2021 to storm our capital. That’s not American, that’s Germany under Hitler. Using the Justice Department to exact revenge on people who disagree with him? He is dismantling our Constitution with the help of our very corrupt Supreme Court. Is that what you want? To be replaced with what – Project 2025? No, I do not want Republican control in Westport.
It is always difficult to know where to begin with such egregiously false comments. You may notice that the “felonies”made by Trump all came to naught because none were valid and even had they been they were not of a type that posed dangers to others (bookkeeping errors). Leftist politicians have allowed repeat offender violent criminals free to prey on innocent citizens. Literally every day in the news are such stories, and they were not released by rock ribbed Republicans. As for children being thrown into cars….they are illegal aliens placed in cars with their illegal parents or placed in cars because we do not know who their parents or guardians are but do know they are here illegally and possibly being trafficked.Finally, you should be more careful about the accusations you make. Ask George Stephanopoulos what happened when he falsely accused Trump of being a rapist. Trump was never convicted of rape. Keep talking Rozanne, you are doing your party no favors