I am writing in response to those individuals requesting the identity of Bristol County Concerned Citizens (BCCC) members or participants. Let me first identify myself as a registered Democrat and currently (until the end of the year) an elected member of the Bristol Democratic Town Committee, and the former vice chairman of that organization. 

When I decided to not run for re-election to a leadership position as vice chairman, I was open and forthcoming to the membership with the reasons and they were aware that I was in conflict with their positions. I do not believe that they are the party that I joined more than 20 years ago. That committee is not as inclusionary as they profess to be and dislike anyone who disagrees and wishes to voice opposition.

The new direction of the committee is to advance issues that are important to the leadership team, and if you openly disagree or are suspected of having an opposing view, they block you from their circle. They have blocked me from any communication (although still an elected member until year end) because I didn't file for re-election and I have openly disagreed with some of their positions.

This is not the party of inclusion that I joined. The focus of their mission is, you are welcome only if you agree with them 100 percent.

The decision to become a member of the BCCC was an easy one for me. Although not a political organization, they are a group of citizens with a concern for our communities and state. The position of the membership is to follow our Constitution and the laws of our land.

The BCCC is open to all, even those with progressive views, to learn what we are about. The makeup of the group is Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians and Independents who openly share their positions. This organization has in fact drawn people to be candidates who will represent all the people. Please know who are the right people for you and do your research.

We all have an obligation to review their individual positions. This cycle I will be voting for Republicans, Independents and Democrats, for both local and state offices, who I believe have worked for all the people or are committed to do so.

Should that label me as a bad Democrat? I do not think so. Knowing my vote will be for candidates who have not only their values, but the constituents’ values at heart, makes me feel better.

Please do your research and investigate the candidates before voting.

Armand Bilotti
Bristol