Is Kapoor ‘against tax increases, or for them?’

To the Editor:

Do not be deceived!

Political deception is rampant in our country. Connecticut, and specifically our district of Monroe and Newtown is no exception. Democrat candidate for State Representative Nick Kapoor is talking out of both sides of his mouth as he campaigns for your vote. I’ve pressed him on several topics through his FB page that are not consistent with how he’s voted as a member of Monroe’s Town Council and Board of Education.

Within his State Representative campaign, he has repeatedly stated that ” now is not the time to raise taxes in Connecticut.” But he has also stated “taxes in Connecticut must be used to address this problem” when he declared that “income inequality is unacceptable.”

When pressed further to explain  specifically what he meant by income inequality, his thoughts on redistribution of wealth, and if he believes that the demographics of Monroe and Newtown should be treated the same as that of the larger cities of Bridgeport, Waterbury, etc., his answer was “every single state representative and state senator votes for laws that affect the entire state. I do not subscribe to the “redistribution of wealth.” I can’t advocate for laws at the Capitol that only affect Monroe and Newtown- carves out for specific towns are very rare. But I can advocate for my district through my votes”.

So, that being said, which is it? He advocates for his district, which is very different demographically in many aspects including personal income and property ownership as, say, Bridgeport … or he seeks to “level the playing field” in the state pertaining to income inequality? Sounds to me, like someone who does in fact subscribe to “redistribution of wealth” and will, indeed, jump at the chance to raise your taxes. Nick gives some very long winded responses to very basic yes or no questions.

He has responded that he would vote in favor of the newly proposed transportation taxes. So which is it to be? Against tax increases, or for them?

Kapoor’s main talking point in seeking election is that taxes must “remain low and fair.” He has said “I think taxes need to be as low and as fair as possible”, adding “it should be appropriate for all residents in Connecticut, without sacrificing programs.” But how does Nick define “fair”? Or “appropriate”? And for whom? For those of us living in Monroe, or is he proposing that Monroe residents pay more to be “fair” to Bridgeport and Hartford residents? What’s “fair” about taxing some residents more because other residents make less money?

Last I checked, here in America we reward hard work and industry, not penalize it! How will he pay for funding the social agenda and programs he favors without taxing the state residents who’ve worked hard to earn money? It is entirely likely that you and I view these things very differently than what Nick supports. He is deceiving you. Do not fall for it.

Did you know that Kapoor has been a vocal proponent for increased property taxes over the last few budget cycles? Or that he’s criticized every education budget reduction while supporting the latest 8.9% teacher pay increase?

Whether you are a skilled craftsman, a professional, or an ordinary laborer you are entitled to enjoy the financial rewards of your hard work and sacrifice, not have them stripped away as a penalization for making more than the next person.

Do not be fooled by his rhetoric. Nick Kapoor has a proven track record of supporting big union pay increases, higher property taxes and new tax policy detrimental to Connecticut working families and there is no indication that he will vote any differently from here on in, should he win election.

Mr. Kapoor is trying hard as a candidate to make you think he’s somebody he isn’t. His record of supporting new taxes is clear. What, exactly, is his agenda? Perhaps Mr. Kapoor wants to see Connecticut become as liberal and tax happy as California. Think about that as you cast your vote on Tuesday, April 13th.  There is a lot at stake here.

Lori Friot

Monroe, CT