New York Times Editorial

Fourth District (Southwest Connecticut) Representative Christopher Shays, the veteran Fairfield County Republican, faces the challenge of his political life from Diane Farrell, Westport's first selectwoman. Ms. Farrell says that on important issues, Mr. Shays is in lock step with the G.O.P. agenda. On that count she's wrong: his record reflects a rare thoughtfulness and considerable independence.

Anyone who disagrees with the Bush administration - particularly on its policy in Iraq - is going to be tempted to vent that anger on Mr. Shays, who backed the invasion. But we can't forget the many services Mr. Shays has done in his years in Washington, particularly his championing of campaign finance reform. People like Senator John McCain would never have gotten legislation through Congress if Mr. Shays had not had the determination, and the political courage, to fight to fix the system. Legislators with the fearlessness and principles of Mr. Shays aren't easy to come by. Although Ms. Farrell is a strong candidate with a bright future, neither the district nor the nation can afford to lose Chris Shays. We endorse him for re-election.

Melissa K. Carlson
Communications Director
Republican Main Street Partnership
1350 I Street, NW, Suite 560
Washington, DC 20005
202.682.3139(w)
 

RMSP PAC is a political action committee that supports Republican candidates who are fiscally conservative and take a pragmatic, common-sense approach to social issues. For more information on RMSP PAC, visit www.mainstreetpac.com