Gregory Stroud
Verified
PhD, lapsed historian, co-founder and editor in chief of The Connecticut Examiner
Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Gregory Stroud
Gifford Claims to Be Small Business Champion – Columbia’s Records Say Otherwise
To the Editor: Will Gifford, the 21-year-old Republican candidate for Connecticut’s 8th House District, centers his campaign on one theme: he owns a small business. “Today I own and operate my own small business — so I know firsthand what it means to make payroll, price a job, and watch Hartford add costs to both,” his campaign website says. Versions of the claim appear at least four times on his publicly financed campaign website and again on his Facebook page.
Lamont Stalling Under the Guise of Due Diligence
Gov. Ned Lamont’s recent announcement that he needs “a month or so” for further clarification on whether Connecticut will take part in the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit program raises immediate alarm bells for me. It is all about the timing. Thirty days puts the Governor’s decision safely past Election Day. By stalling under the guise of due diligence, Lamont avoids taking a clear stance when it matters most to voters. Yet the reality of the FSTC is already quite obvious.
Labriola has the ‘Experience, Work Ethic, and Dedication’ to Hit the Ground Running
To the Editor: As I prepare to conclude my service as State Representative for the 23rd Assembly District, my top priority is ensuring that our community continues to have dedicated, common-sense leadership in Hartford. That is why I am enthusiastically endorsing Barbara Labriola to serve as our next State Representative. Over the years, I have worked hard to represent the unique character and needs of Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook.
Vahey Listens, Relates, Goes to Work
To the Editor: I hope you will join me in voting for Cristin McCarthy Vahey in this upcoming election. I have had the honor of knowing and working with Cristin McCarthy Vahey for eight years now and have witnessed her tireless commitment to making a better Fairfield, and a better world around her. Cristin has all of the qualities that make her an excellent representative. She is thoughtful, well prepared, smart, hardworking and resolute.
The Person You Want in the Room
To the Editor: When we elect someone to public office, we are deciding whose judgment we trust, who will listen when we disagree, and who will remember why we sent them there in the first place. I have known Jill Oberlander for many years, and I have campaigned for her more than once. Jill is the person you want in the room when a hard decision has to be made. She does her homework. She listens.
‘You Chose to Pick a Fight with Librarians?’
To the Editor: I could not believe that in 2026, in Connecticut, not TEXAS, I unfortunately had to read Chris Powell’s Op-Ed, “Lamont’s ‘Impatience’ Fails Hospital; And Librarians are Biggest Censors.” You chose to pick a fight with Librarians? Seemingly the only humans left fighting to protect all people’s right to read for free, and you’re calling us the biggest censors!? Do you have any idea how outrageous of a statement that is?
Thomas Helps People Understand How Government Works
To the Editor: If the phrase, “the people in power” has a negative association for you these days, look to Stephanie Thomas, Connecticut’s Secretary of the State (SOTS). SOTS Thomas happens to be one of my heroes, and while she has great responsibility such as managing our state’s voting and elections, it is not her power that I am referring to, but rather our power. During her first campaign, Stephanie Thomas identified civics education as a priority.
Courpas Works Hard Behind the Scenes to Preserve Local Control
To the Editor: As a former state legislator, I know the hard work that goes into constituent service as well as lawmaking. Those are two critical parts of the job of being a legislator, but there is a third component that is very important that sometimes gets overlooked. That is strong advocacy for one’s district in the face of constant interference in local affairs by the state legislature.
Oberlander’s Agenda Grounded in Compassion for Seniors
To the Editor: I met Jill Oberlander many years ago. Early on, I learned that one of her great strengths, among the many she has, is her compassion. Simply put, Jill cares. The ethic of caring came to Jill early in life. Her father was an OB-GYN who provided care to many of his patients who could not afford it. His concern and care for others was passed on to Jill. Today, that compassion is evident in her approach to senior care.
Plainfield Is More Than a Place on a Map, It’s Our Home, and It’s Worth Fighting For.
To the Editor: My name is Krista Dodge, and Plainfield has been my home for my entire life. I grew up here, attended our schools, played sports, and had my first job in this town. Today, I am married with two children who have also gone through the Plainfield school system. Plainfield is not simply where I live. It is where I grew up, where I raised my family, and where I have spent a lifetime making memories.
What Goes On Behind the Walls of Garner Correctional Institution
How did Raymar Thompson die at age 29? Garner Correctional Institution and the CT Department of Correction (DOC) know, but they aren’t telling. And apparently our laws and policies allow them to keep it a secret—both from his mother and from we the people. Mr. Thompson was incarcerated at Garner, which specializes in locking up prisoners with mental health issues.
Greenwich’s Affordable Housing: What We Have Learned and Must Do
Our town is witnessing the beginning of several major residential projects with affordable housing set-asides for which it has limited zoning control. It also became clear in the recent candidate debates that Democrats have less interest than Republicans in seeking to restore local zoning control. This column provides some background and what might be done.
Don’t Let Medicare Undermine Life-Saving Surgery
Every surgeon makes a promise to their patients. We cannot always promise a cure or that complications will not happen. But we can promise to: one, do everything in our power to achieve the best possible outcome — and two, work to find them the resources they need to recover and return to a healthy life. A new Medicare policy is making me wonder whether I can still make that second promise. I regularly care for patients with colorectal cancer, traumatic injuries, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Miro ‘Has Faced Challenges with Remarkable Strength and Resilience’
To the Editor: I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for Lisa Miro for State Representative of the 133rd District. As a member of this community, I care deeply about who represents us in Hartford. I believe character, integrity, dedication, and a strong work ethic are qualities that matter in a public servant, and Lisa embodies them all. I have known Lisa since 1990 and have witnessed firsthand her determination, perseverance, and commitment to everything she undertakes.
Washington Has a Chance to Save Veterans’ Lives
I graduated from Marine Corps boot camp a couple weeks before September 11, 2001. I had no idea how profoundly 9/11 would change the trajectory of my life. I went on to deploy to Iraq and Afghanistan. Between deployments, I worked at the Wounded Warrior Battalion in San Diego, supporting Marines as they rebuilt their lives. What I did not understand was how deeply I was absorbing their grief and losses.
‘Parents are Rightfully Frustrated’ in Old Saybrook
To the Editor: In the upcoming election, I am proud to cast my vote for Barbara Labriola for State Representative. Barbara has a distinguished career in public service, having served as both Town Clerk and Town Treasurer. In her current role as Old Saybrook’s Treasurer, she works collaboratively with everyone to ensure our local finances remain strong and accountable.
She Doesn’t Just Live in Our Community—She Is Our Community
To the Editor: After 24 years of friendship, I know firsthand the compassion, integrity, and commitment Cristin brings to the people she serves and her work representing us in Hartford. As Cristin McCarthy Vahey runs for re-election as Representative for Connecticut House District 133, I want to share why I believe in her, both as a public servant and as one of my closest friends of 24 years. We met at preschool when we were both pregnant, neither of us knowing many people.
A Conspiracy in Old Lyme?
To the Editor: Last week I read a letter to the editor by Old Lyme Selectman John Mesham supporting Brandy Campbell’s candidacy for the Board of Education. His letter left me baffled and, frankly, concerned. I take no issue with Mr. Mesham’s support for Ms. Campbell. He has every right to promote a candidate with whom he aligns philosophically, and it is important for residents to know where their elected officials stand.
Labriola ‘Will Stand up for our Communities’
To the Editor: I am proud to support Barbara Labriola for State Representative of the 23rd District because I believe her values reflect the principles that have long made our community strong. Barbara and I share the same values: freedom, respect for privale property rights, respec/ for the individual, equal opportunity, even-handed justice, and personal responsibility.
Stand up For Democracy. Vote Jill Oberlander
To the Editor: This November 3rd, we will have the opportunity to participate in one of the great rights afforded by our democracy: our right to vote. I am grateful for the ability to exercise this important responsibility. And on November 3rd, I will be voting for Jill Oberlander for State Senator for the 36th District. Jill’s experience reflects a commitment to the principles of representative government: listening to residents, weighing competing needs and taking responsibility for decisions.
She’ll Put 23rd District Constituents Over Party Interests
To the Editor: As a recent college graduate who is planning on making the shoreline my home with my wife, I want a representative who will work to make it easier for us to remain here. Connecticut is an expensive state and the majority in Hartford don’t seem to care about whether taxes or electric rates rise. They also want to eliminate local autonomy when it comes to education. For these reasons, I am proud to support Barbara Labriola for State Representative.
Somers Understands What’s at Stake for Connecticut Farming
To the Editor: When you own and operate a family farm in Connecticut, you understand that farming is more than a business. It’s a way of life. It’s early mornings, long days, unpredictable expenses, and a commitment to caring for land and animals that often spans generations. At Stone Hill Farm in Plainfield, we understand what it takes to keep a farming operation going. Like so many agricultural families throughout eastern Connecticut, we know that every dollar matters.
Accountability Can’t be a Political Convenience
To the Editor: Can somebody explain to me why Connecticut voters are so quick to demand accountability from Erin Stewart, but somehow Ned Lamont gets a pass when the Lamont administration has been surrounded by controversies involving millions upon millions of taxpayer dollars? We’re talking about state contracts worth tens of millions of dollars, federal corruption convictions, questionable spending, and serious failures in government oversight. Like, honestly why?
‘There is no Better Steward for Connecticut Elections’
To the Editor: I have had the pleasure of working with Connecticut Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas as a member of the Government Administration and Elections Committee (GAE), where she frequently testifies on legislation, constitutional amendments, voting rights, and election administration. I first met Stephanie in 2022, when she was running for Secretary of the State. I was a brand-new candidate and, as a social studies teacher, fascinated by the work of her office.
Investing in Our Schools Means Investing in Our Communities
To the Editor: As a longtime educator and a neighbor of State Representative Nick Menapace, I have both a professional and personal perspective on why education matters—and why I support Nick’s approach to education funding. Having spent 25 years in education, I know firsthand that strong schools don’t happen by accident. They require dedicated educators, appropriate resources, and a commitment to giving every student the opportunity to succeed.
‘This Election is a Chance to Choose Leaders who will put People and Community First’
To the Editor: Greenwich stands at a consequential moment. Decisions made in Hartford will shape our families’ futures, our rights, and the character of our communities. We need leaders with the experience, integrity, and courage to meet this moment. Jill Oberlander is that leader. Jill is sharp, deeply familiar with the issues facing Connecticut, and willing to speak up for what is right—not simply what is politically convenient.
‘Sometimes Elections are About More Than any Single Policy’
To the Editor: Sometimes elections are about more than any single policy. They are about what we believe our government should stand for and whether our representatives will act on those beliefs. That is why I support State Representative Nick Menapace and State Senator Martha Marx. I attended the recent debate between Nick Menapace and Anne Santoro. What stood out to me was the difference between repeatedly invoking “fiscal responsibility” and explaining how to address the problems people face.
Wisialowski Knows this District Well and Listens Carefully
To the Editor: I am proud to support Jane Wisialowski for election to the 23rd House District on November 3rd. Jane’s commitment to public service and compassion for the vulnerable among us is clear. In Old Saybrook, she serves on the Board of Selectmen and the Board of Education. She previously served on the Parks and Recreation Commission. Jane is a professional conservator and fiduciary, assisting people with decisions when they are unable due to age, illness, and disability.
The Trucking Lobby’s Contradictory Campaign on Accountability
Since the start of President Trump’s term, the Department of Transportation has revoked a whopping 30,000 commercial trucking licenses that were illegally issued to foreign drivers. And that might just be the tip of the iceberg — an untold number of unqualified truckers remain behind the wheel of the 40,000-pound machines barreling across American highways.
‘The Current Team of Perpetual Democrats Deserves a Chance to Play Defense’
To the Editor: Ryan Fazio may be having a moment at a critical time for Connecticut. It will be interesting to see whether Connecticut Republicans can actually lead again in Connecticut. New Constitutional Officers and Senators for the land of steady habits might just be what Connecticut bill payers need right now. The current team of perpetual Democrats deserves a chance to play defense for a change in Connecticut.
Transportation has Been a Central Focus of Oberlander’s Political Career
To the Editor: State Senate candidate Jill Oberlander understands the importance of railroad improvements to Connecticut’s economy. Transportation has been a central focus of her political career. Jill spent years working as an attorney for the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) and has been a commuter herself. She supports lowering the overall cost of public transit and reducing highway congestion by promoting pre-tax transit subsidies for commuters and improving Metro-North service.
‘America Cannot Remain the World Leader in Pharmaceutical Innovation if it Tolerates Chronic Free-Riding’
For over a year, German officials have obstructed one of the Trump administration’s most important reform initiatives. And the president’s patience just ran out. The White House has repeatedly asked allied countries to roll back their price controls on prescription drugs.
‘High Electricity Prices are not Inevitable. They are a Policy Choice’
The price of electricity in Connecticut has soared so high that even Democrat governor Ned Lamont is starting to take notice. The governor’s election-year conversion on electricity prices, however, is too little, too late. This is the same Ned Lamont, after all, who’s overseen a 39% jump in Connecticut’s average electricity price—to third highest in the nation—since becoming governor in 2019.
‘They Have Turned Against Their Own Values, and Principles that Once Defined their Party’
To the Editor: What does the Democratic Party under Gov. Ned Lamont and our Democratically controlled House represent in Connecticut? This is what happens when people do not vote. Connecticut lawmakers have imposed every major tax on taxpayers including one of the least neutral state income taxes in the country. The state income tax ranges from 2.00% to 6.99%, employers pay a 7.5% corporate income tax, and the sales tax is 6.35%.
A History of Body Snatching at the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion in Norwalk
A History of Body Snatching at the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion in Norwalk — Meredith Guinness, 10.6.2026 At 6 p.m., New York City tour guide James Henry will begin “Grave Objections: A History of Body Snatching for Science" (contributed) We’re Not Here to Make Power Comfortable Get unlimited access to in-depth local journalism by becoming a CT Examiner member. Already a member? Sign in.
‘Legislators Who do not Legislate to Make our Communities Safe Have no Place in Hartford’
To the Editor: I am reaching out as a very concerned Connecticut resident upset that Republican legislators won’t support common sense gun legislation. Why do Connecticut Republicans put the rights of gun owners ahead of the rights of our children? Quite frankly, this is unacceptable to the majority of the voters in our state who realize that common sense legislation protects our very vulnerable young people.
I Support Thomas’ Challenge to the Trump Administration on Voter Data
To the Editor: I can’t say enough about our Connecticut Secretary of the State, Stephanie Thomas. She is smart, on top of the job, transparent about what things she can and can’t do as Secretary of State, and a lot of fun to be around. Everyone should be so thankful we have her in office during these chaotic and constant White House antics. In short, Secretary Thomas repeatedly stands up to President Donald Trump’s attacks on our democratic institutions.
‘I Have Come to Know Brandy Campbell and her Views on our School System’
To the Editor, Over the last 2 years, I have come to know Brandy Campbell and her views on our school system. Brandy, the mother of two children in the Lyme/Old Lyme school system, is extremely intelligent and has the right dedication to all efforts she undertakes. She is a PhD veterinarian and scientist with current involvement in the development of AI in the workplace. That is a key attribute for a Board of Education member given the relevancy of this technology presently.
Republicans and Democrats Alike Respect her Keen Intellect and her Integrity
To the Editor: I am proud to support Jill Oberlander for State Senate in the 36th District. I serve with Jill on the RTM Finance Committee, where she is Vice Chair, and I served on the BET in 2024 and 2025. I know her work, and I know her heart. Jill’s record is one of results. In 2017, Democrats won control of the BET for the first time in nearly a century, and Jill became the first Democrat Chair to lead it.
‘Common Sense and Independence’
To the Editor: On Tuesday, November 3rd, I will be supporting Barbara Labriola for State Representative of the 23rd District. I have gotten to know Barbara and have seen firsthand her commitment to our community and the people who call the 23rd District home. She understands that being a State Representative is about listening to constituents, standing up for our communities, and making sure our voices are heard in Hartford.
‘Corruption, Self-Dealing, Favoritism, and Conflicts of Interest Weaken Public Trust’
We the people, for the people, and by the people, that’s us, you and I. It seems to me that many of you are living in a world of apathy. Feeling like no matter what I say or what I do matters. That not true. Why vote? Nothing is going to change. Again, this is not true. This is one of the biggest reasons things are not going to change. You’re giving up, and that is where the power of the people deteriorates.
‘I Know What Good Local Leadership Looks Like’
To the Editor: I am supporting Jane Wisialowski for State Representative because I know what good local leadership looks like, and I believe Jane has the experience to represent our community well. I served on the Old Saybrook Board of Selectmen from 2019 to 2025. That experience taught me that local government is rarely simple. Decisions involve competing priorities, limited resources and people with strongly held views.
The 169 Problem
One state. 169 municipalities. 169 fiscal realities. Connecticut loves its towns, and for good reason. Our local identities are part of what makes this state special. Old Saybrook feels different from Hartford. New Haven feels different from Shelton. Nobody is suggesting otherwise. But here’s a question we don’t ask nearly enough: Does Connecticut’s economy still operate the way Connecticut’s government is organized? I don’t think it does. And nowhere is that disconnect more obvious than property taxes.
The Right Choice for the Lyme-Old Lyme Board of Education
To the Editor: If you, as a voter, were to define the right experience, character, and community involvement traits in a new member of our Board of Education, here are the most salient requisites you would be most likely to consider: A candidate with a high level of education that knows where great employment opportunities exist in the workplace. A candidate with significant project and staff management experience. A candidate with teaching experience outside the Old Lyme school system.
The M.A.R.B Delusion: Why State Oversight Will Not Save Chronically Underfunded Public Schools
When state lawmakers present potential bailouts, school board members and taxpayers often sigh in relief, thinking the cuts won’t be so bad. A closer look at the latest scheme Public Act 26-68, specifically Section 388, allowing school boards to voluntarily submit to fiscal intervention reveals a dangerous illusion and sleight of hand. Supporters frame MARB participation as a Godsend for underfunded school districts.
Shared Values in the 23rd District Race
To the Editor: I am proud to support Barbara Labriola for State Representative of the 23rd District. Barbara and I share a strong belief in the values that make our community such a wonderful place to live. We have a high regard for efficient, effective, and functional government; high-performing schools; a deep respect for our natural resources; public safety; a vibrant business community; and, ultimately, a great quality of life for all.
Hartford Needs More Problem Solvers
To the Editor: I am a longtime Greenwich resident with strong roots and ties to Stamford. I have made many important and special friendships in these wonderful towns. Everyone I know wants government to work effectively. We all want safe roads, reliable trains, sewers and drains that handle heavy rainfall, lower utility bills and a state budget that spends our tax dollars wisely and efficiently.
Why I’m Asking for Your Support Once Again
To the Editor: Bringing a parent’s perspective, fact-based decision-making, and a commitment to every family My name is Brandy Campbell, and as the mother of two current students, I care deeply about the schools our children attend, their daily experiences, and the community we build around them. I am seeking this one-year term because I believe our Board of Education should reflect the entire community it serves.
Our Community Deserves to See How the Civic Sausage Gets Made
To the Editor: In an era when local government bodies often operate behind a wall of public relations and pre-scripted soundbites, a recent special meeting of the Bridgeport Board of Education the public was treated to a rare look at how our Board of Education actually functions. When a motion to enter a closed-door executive session was not made, the board was forced to conduct its annual self-evaluation entirely in open session.
Constable’s Landscapes Meet the Photographers Who Followed
Haven’t subscribed yet? Click here to subscribe. CT Examiner is just $20 a year. A one-month trial subscription is just $5. And if you want to unsubscribe? That’s online and at the click of a button. No phone calls. No runaround. No hassle. At less than a tenth the cost of our statewide competitors, our promise to you is no-nonsense federal, state, and local news that’s nonpartisan, respects your privacy and is ad-free. Subscribe and see why CT Examiner is the fastest growing news source in Connecticut.
Show More
loading
Actions
Get in touch with Gregory
Contact Gregory, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack