To the editor:

Clearly, I only have a few days left as an elected official. However, the recent allegations involving Bristol resident Laufton Ascencao are truly disturbing and have compelled me to break my silence. While it may appear to exist as merely an  internal fight between Mr. Ascencao and the members of the Warren Democratic Town Committee the ramifications run much deeper. These accusations are destructive to our democracy and cut at the heart of good government.  

Mr. Ascencao's assertion that he made a personal commitment to the Warren Democrats that his campaign would send a mailer in support of some local candidates may rest as an unfulfilled campaign promise. He further admits wrongdoing in a letter to the editor. However, his claim that it was finished much too late for it to actually arrive before Election Day now appears disingenuous at best. His admissions raise a number of questions and serious doubts about his credibility. How can any of us trust that he will serve in the best interest of Warren's residents given this egregious breach of faith? His admission is correct, he did let this deception go on for far too long. In fact, he should never have deceived anyone in the first place.

As a result of this behavior, I too call for him to decline his District 68 House of Representative seat so that we may find someone better suited to serve our communities who understands the spirit of service  and will act with integrity and candor. The best way for Mr. Ascencao to serve the towns of Bristol and Warren now is to truly lead by example, and step aside.  

Chris Stanley

402 Market St., Warren

Mr. Stanley is a member of the Warren Town Council.