An almost capacity audience of around 200 people gathered Tuesday at the Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School for an hour-long debate between 23rd House seat candidates Democrat Mary Stone and Republican Devin Carney. The debate was co-sponsored by the New London Day and the Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce. The Day Editor Paul Choinere, who moderated the debate, asked the candidates written questions submitted by the audience.
The 23rd seat has been held for the past 12 years by state representative Marilyn Giuliano (R), who will be retiring after completing her current term.
In a relatively quiet, respectful debate, candidates responded to audience questions on a wide range of topics including education, job creation and taxation.
Carney described his array of political and business experience, adding that he has “done all this while working part-time jobs to help pay the bills.”
“We need a state rep. to carry on Marilyn’s legacy of strong constituent services and passionate public service,” Carney noted, adding “It’s time that my generation steps up and takes hold of the debt we will have to shoulder and the future of our state.”
Stone said that the extensive experience she has gained in volunteer and elected positions over some 20 years in the town, including on the Board of Education, Zoning Board of Appeals, Old Lyme Libray and Open Space Commission, has demonstrated her, “ability to lead and work hard with proven results.” She submitted that “everything I have accomplished in our towns … has been because of my ability to work with others across party lines, to make real and lasting changes.” She summed up her candidacy in the words, “I do not make huge, unrealistic promises just to get your vote. But, as your full-time legislator, I will work as hard as I possibly can to serve your needs and get the best results for our towns.”