To the editor:

I've spent recent Saturday mornings talking with my neighbors about Liana Cassar, candidate for District 66 State Representative. These chats have confirmed my sense that most people care about the same issues that concern me; having access to affordable health care, being taxed fairly, protecting the environment, supporting small businesses and people who are struggling, being safe from gun violence, and protecting women's rights. They, too, are fed up with Rhode Island "politics as usual." They want their government to tackle the important issues---and to do it ethically and out in the open.

I've gotten to know Liana better since I joined the Barrington Town Democratic Committee, which she agreed to co-chair in 2017. But, Liana has always been active in community groups, working on important issues including women’s issues and stopping gun violence. She owns a small business and has two children in the Barrington schools. I know she will fight for economic opportunity, fair taxes, access to affordable and comprehensive health care, commonsense firearms regulation, and education because I've been watching her do it. You can check out her website for more details. I'll just say here that I've come to know her as a competent woman who is thoughtful, intelligent, compassionate and savvy. I'm happy to call her my friend.

There is a primary contest for the Democratic nomination for District 66 this year. It says a lot that people who are involved in the affairs of our community throughout the year support Liana's candidacy. The Barrington Town Democratic Committee listened to presentations from both candidates and, after thoughtful and candid discussion, overwhelmingly voted to endorse Liana. She has also been endorsed by the District 66 Democratic Committee, RI Democratic Party Women’s Caucus, Planned Parenthood Votes! Rhode Island, RI NOW (National Organization for Women), Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense (Candidate of Distinction), Working Families RI, Young Democrats of Rhode Island, and 1199 SEIU RI.

As a nation we are swamped in a difficult political situation. I hope that fact will motivate people to take action locally. Please vote in the primary. Check out both candidates, of course. But I hope you will agree that, although both people deserve our respect, it is Liana who will best represent the district.

Sincerely,

Tim Mize

Barrington