U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, D-4th Connecticut, is campaigning for another term in Congress. He faces a challenge from former Darien first selectman, Jayme Stevenson, a Republican who is also running on the Independent Party line.
Both candidates agreed to answer several questions on the issues from The Sun, which will be run as separate articles leading to Election Day on Nov. 8.
How can the U.S. grow its economy and create more high paying jobs?
Stevenson: I truly believe that education is the foundation for allowing all boats to rise. I will prioritize high quality education, regardless of zip code, and will be a champion for school choice. As a mother, I know that education is key to growing our economy, growing and diversifying our business sector and better paying jobs.
Great schools are a powerful economic development tool. That is why as Darien’s First Selectman, I worked with our Board of Education to make sure our schools had the resources they needed to hire great teachers and make our schools the best they could be.
Sadly, we do not see this across Connecticut. Too many children are falling behind. I want every child to have the same educational opportunity the children of Darien have.
When I am in Washington, I’ll remember the families I met with and what I learned as a selectman; Education is the key to opportunity and success.
Himes: When we focus on domestic manufacturing, we don’t just grow our economy and create good-paying jobs for Americans, we also ease supply chain issues and reduce national security risks.
With eight straight months of growth, Connecticut is fast becoming a proven leader in
sustaining a strong job market. We must continue this momentum on by focusing on skills-based training, upgrading our transportation infrastructure, and easing regional housing shortages.
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