Sen. Markley and Rep. Coutu Declare Victory for Vets & Taxpayers after Gov. Pulls Controversial New Haven Bond Item

State Sen. Joe Markley (R-Southington) and Rep. Chris Coutu (R-Norwich) today issued the following joint statement after Gov. Dannel P. Malloy pulled from the State Bond Commission’s agenda a controversial measure to give $300,000 in state money to a communist-led nonprofit in New Haven:

“Today is a day to declare victory for the people of Connecticut. To the many taxpayers – especially the veterans groups – who spoke out and rallied against this bond item: Congratulations. Your voices were heard.

“When the governor pulled the bond item from the agenda he stated it was because of the overwhelming and emotional plea of the veterans from around the state. His action proves that when people feel strongly about something and it is the will of the people one cannot be denied.

“We would also like to thank our Republican colleagues Sen. Andrew Roraback and Rep. Sean Williams the only two minority party members on the bond commission who spoke up and questioned this controversial item from the start.

“$300,000 of your money will NOT go to refurbish the headquarters for the Communist Party in Connecticut because you called the governor’s office, you wrote letters to the editor and you joined us in a rally in front of the organization, waving flags and patriotic signs.

“We’re not attacking communists for being communists–we oppose the funding because they’re a party, and marvel at the fact that the basic principle that government shouldn’t pay partisan expenses could be transgressed.

“Without you, this item would have passed. The message has been heard loud and clear. Thank you for helping us keep the administration honest.”