MIDDLETOWN, CT — The Connecticut Republican Party today called out Governor Ned Lamont for his cowardly refusal to face State Senator Ryan Fazio on the debate stage before Connecticut voters begin casting their ballots for the November election.

Earlier this month, Connecticut Republican Party Chairman Ben Proto sent a formal invitation to Connecticut Democratic Party Chairman Roberto Alves, with copies to both Governor Lamont and State Senator Fazio’s campaigns, proposing that the Connecticut Democrat Party and Connecticut Republican Party jointly host a bipartisan debate before absentee ballots are issued (copy attached). Despite the offer for a fair format with co-moderators chosen by each party and equal audience representation, neither Chairman Alves nor Governor Lamont’s campaign has even acknowledged receipt of the letter, let alone a desire to provide the people of Connecticut with an opportunity for voters to hear the candidates before voting begins. They remain silent, hiding from voters and avoiding any accountability for Governor Lamont’s administration’s record.  

Governor Lamont’s cowardly approach to defending his abysmal record speaks volumes. He knows he is personally responsible for Connecticut’s affordability crisis. He, and Connecticut Democrats, have created the skyrocketing energy costs and excessive property taxes, as well as record-high insurance premiums squeezing working families across the state. Furthermore, the persistent level of corruption surrounding his administration has proven entirely indefensible.

“ Lamont is afraid to face hard questions because he simply has no answers.

Voters deserve to hear directly from both candidates on the critical issues facing our state before they cast their ballots,” said Chairman Proto. “Hiding from debates when families are struggling under the weight of his policies is a disservice to the people of Connecticut and speaks volumes of his belief in his own record.”  

“Come on, Governor, stand up before your subjects and defend your record. Or are you afraid the people will see that the emperor really has no clothes?” concluded Proto.

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