As with most things in 2020, running for elected office was more challenging than ever. It’s significant because running a campaign is always month upon month of hard work, and this year required agile thinking and constantly adapting. Candidates in this election showed their unwavering commitment to our communities by offering leadership in one of the most difficult times in living memory.

I want to extend my thanks and the appreciation of the Chamber’s Board of Directors to everyone who ran for office in eastern Connecticut. Service in public office is both invigorating and exhausting. It offers opportunities to improve the lives of residents in meaningful ways, often accompanied by the challenge of navigating opposing views on how best to achieve that change. The willingness of these candidates to offer that service and give voice to their positions on difficult issues is commendable.

The Chamber was pleased to partner with the League of Women Voters of Southeastern Connecticut to host debates with candidates for the state House of Representatives in the 23rd, 37th, 38th, 39th, 40th, and 42nd Districts. A strength of our democracy is open debate, which not only helps us choose who represents us, but also informs a broader understanding of the essential issues we face. Constituents shared their concerns and asked thoughtful questions.

The electoral process fosters these important conversations that will shape how our community takes on challenges going forward. I encourage everyone to express a word of appreciation to each of the candidates who served us well in this process during an exceptionally demanding year.

Tony Sheridan is the president and chief executive officer of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut and a former first selectman of Waterford.