The Town Crier

The Future Of Newington..

Rise Of Democrats, Local Paper Make For Better Government

(Third in a special Town Crier series on Newington- its development, needs, and potential- as seen by prominent civic leaders. In this article State Representative Robert Satter views government and growth in our town.)

'Two recent developments in Newington have made a tremendous difference in achieving good government.' The speaker was Robert Satter, incumbent candidate for State Representative from the Town of Newington.

"One is the rise of the Democratic Party." "The other is the existence of a local newspaper- an independent newspaper- which is capable of focusing a searchlight on all aspects of local government and reporting to the people."

The rise of the Democratic Party has benefitted both parties, Mr. Satter notes. Two years ago the Democrats were successful in local elections- owing, many think, to the landslide victory of Governor Ribicoff. Last year, however, the Democrats in Newington won by 175 votes- ending the single party dominance that had existed.

The existence of a two party system has raised the standards of both parties, said Mr. Satter. Single party dominance meant the Democrats could put any ill-qualified candidates for an election in which they were doomed to defeat. Similarly, the Republicans could run for public office virtually anyone and be assured of victory.

'Equality means responsibility', Mr. Satter said. "With a total registration of 3809 Republicans, 2612 Democrats, and 2200 Independent or no party voters both parties are obliged to select the best qualified candidates for office."

Mr. Satter quotes famous trial lawyer Lloyd Paul Striker when he speaks of the importance of a local newspaper. "The most important right, Striker said, was the right of cross-examination. This is essentially the function of a local newspaper, which serves as a catalyst for positive action in the community."

The rise of the Democratic Party, Mr. Satter observed, has also contributed to the prospects for charter government. In this respect Mr. Satter said that Democrats have shown "responsibility" in supporting charter government when the voting trend seems to favor them and local offices, which the charter would abolish, are now within reach.

A charter is 'fundamental' to the growth of Newington, he said, 'It is essential because the town has outgrown the Town meeting and the illusion of democracy it offered without the actuality.'

A graduate of Rutgers, Phi Beta Kappa, and Columbia Law School, Mr. Satter, an attorney with Ritter, Satter and Newman of Hartford, is a first Vice President of the Greater Hartford Community Council, a member of the Newington Development

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Legislator Views Future
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ment Commission, Charter Commission, and an ex-teacher who has taught Constitutional Law at Trinity and the University of Hartford and Economics at Rutgers.

The author of a number of articles in professional journals, Mr. Satter is, he proudly notes, tennis doubles champion of Newington, an accomplishment that affords him much pride.