The Democratic primary is fast approaching, and I want to stress the importance of this election. What we do this Aug. 14 will set the stage for the November election. As we have seen the Connecticut Republicans fall in line with the national Republican agenda, it is imperative we put up the best candidates now.

This is why I’m voting for Josh Balter for state senator in the 34th District. Josh has proven to me time and again that he is in this race for the right reason: to serve the people of our district. He is a 20-year Navy veteran with two tours in Iraq and he is ready to fight State Senator Len Fasano for this seat.

As a family law attorney, Josh knows firsthand what the people in our state need to better themselves and to, in turn, better our state. His years in law have prepared him for what it will take to not only understand current law, but has given him the means to write new legislation to move Connecticut forward.

I encourage your readers to join me in voting for Josh Balter on Aug. 14 and help us elect a progressive Democrat to the State Senate.

George Smith

East Haven