Himes: Mixed Message From Elections
Q&A HIMES
Norwalk Hour
Katerina Voutsina
Boston University Washington News Service
11/05/09
WASJHINGTON—Rep. Jim Himes, D-4, said Thursday that local elections this week showed that the Republican Party is clearly re-energized and that Democrats have adopted a “wait and see” attitude on the election results.
“The most important factor in local elections is always the local candidates and the local campaigns,” Himes said. “But I would also say that this created a tailwind for Republican candidates around Connecticut.”
Asked whether Washington politics affected this year’s races, Himes said that Republican Dick Moccia was reelected as mayor because citizens of Norwalk approve of his performance in office, not because of his opinion on Afghanistan.
“I was sent to Washington by my constituents to help restore the economy, to help health reform get done, to make progress in education,” Himes said. “A year from now, when I stand for election, I think the voters will judge me on those things.”
On the national level, Himes said, the message from Tuesday’s elections was mixed.
He noted that a Democrat was elected to the House from New York’s 23rd Congressional District, which he described as “hardcore Republican.” He said, “There are lessons for both parties that came out of this race.”
On health-care reform, Himes said, “I am not a very good political commentator, but I have a very good feeling about health care. I held 60 meetings in town halls attended by thousands of people, and it is clear to me that the substantial majority wants to see health care reformed.”
He added that he is confident that the majority of his constituents support health-care reform.
“I am pleased by the engagement of my constituents, even those who were opposed to it; I was thrilled that they came forward with their concerns.”
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