Local GOP Pols Stump For Obsitnik

Stamford Mayor Michael Pavia and other local political members gathered to address a crowd who showed up to support Congressional 4th District candidate Steve Obsitnik at the Wednesday afternoon.

"He was born in the city of Stamford, went to school in the Stamford school system and graduated from Stamford High School," Pavia said during his opening remarks.

Obsitnik's heritage was a source of pride for him, as was his background as a Naval engineer. Obsitnik relied heavily on his ability to problem solve, not argue. He said his background would help address maybe one of the biggest issues facing Washington.

"In Washington, in the U.S. Congress, there are about 225 lawyers," Obsitnik said while addressing the deficit the country faces. "There's five engineers. I'm a trained nuclear engineer in the United States Navy, Department of Engineering. I can count. Trust me, I will count for you when I get to Washington."

Among those stumping for Obsitnik was former Lt. Governor Michael Fedele. He said his loyalty to Obsitnik extends beyond a label to something much more fundamental.

"I'm here today to endorse Steve, and let me tell you why," Fedele said. "People say, 'Because he's Republican.' Steve has the same values that brought my family here 54 years ago to Stamford from Europe. We came here for the promise and the opportunity that this great country provided us, hopes of jobs, education, safety. I'm supporting Steve because I'm concerned, in Washington, we're losing that sight."

And it wasn't just those with political ties that found took time to send an endorsement Obsitnik's way. Bobby Valentine, local legend and small business owner, sent his regards to the campaign and shared his thoughts on Obsitnik via a letter:

"It’s a pleasure to endorse Steve Obsitnik for congress. He’s a local guy who graduated from Stamford High School, served his country in the U.S. Navy, and has gone on to achieve success in businesses. As a small business owner, I can tell you that we need to send people like Steve Obsitnik to Washington if we want to get this district and our country back on the right track."

Current U.S. Rep. Jim Himes (D-Cos Cob) and Obama caught much of the blame for the current economic state of the country. He accused those in charge of a lack of action, what they would call in the Navy "dereliction of duty."

"We can solve this crisis with leadership and accountability. I want to be held accountable by you, to be your representative. So this race is pretty straight forward... Are you satisfied with Jim Himes and Washington's approach to the problems?" Obsitnik asked. "Big Government spending. Big Government regulation... In the end, results do matter."

Other supporters included incumbent Republicans state Sen. L. Scott Frantz (R-136) of Riverside and state Rep. Livvy Floren (R-149) of Greenwich.