DeLauro stumps for Himes in Shelton
New Haven Register, Wednesday, October 22, 2008
SHELTON - U.S. Rep. Rosa L. DeLauro, D-New Haven, campaigned here Tuesday with Democrat Jim Himes of Greenwich, and the two voiced opposition to a proposal to privatize Social Security.
Himes is seeking to unseat 10-term U.S. Rep. Christopher Shays, R-4, in a hotly contested race.
DeLauro and Himes addressed more than 30 people at Shelton Democratic headquarters on Howe Avenue.
DeLauro, a nine-term incumbent, is being challenged by Bethany Republican Boaz ItsHaky.
The two Democrats spoke about the faltering economy and the financial difficulties retirees face every day.
Himes said there is "a general need to preserve and strengthen the economy and preserve the security of our senior citizens."
Himes, a former executive at Goldman Sachs & Co., said he understands the need for senior citizens to save and invest prudently in the stock market.
However, he supports the "basic promise" made to retirees that because of Social Security benefits, they will not face poverty in their golden years.
Shays' campaign manager, Michael Sohn, said Shays held a forum on the issue several years ago, right after President Bush proposed privatization of Social Security.
"Chris is very clear that he opposes any changes to the program," Sohn said.
Sohn said Himes and DeLauro have been "trying this angle of attack for the last month and a half."
