Author Archives: Ben Shaffer

As a former member of the Ward 1 Democratic Committee and 2009 Endorsement Vote Board Member, I was disappointed to read of the recent decision to revert back to the practice of holding a closed vote to nominate a Democratic aldermanic candidate. Rather than opening the process, as Skilton and Herring claim, this decision will »

As we reflect on the meaning of this historic week in our nation’s history, we may look forward to another swearing-in ceremony, one year from now, for municipal officials in the city of New Haven. During this time of enormous change at the federal level, it is also important to consider the work that must »

With all the energy and coverage surrounding the primaries in early January, it’s easy to forget the eventual importance of other states in shaping our national politics. The most important decision some Yalies can make over break is to register to vote in their home states, especially those that will see competitive Senate races in »

Democrats in Washington aren’t the only ones trying to reclaim the spotlight after six years in the ideological wilderness. Democrats in Hartford have put forward a budget that strongly advances the classic Democratic value of equality, and their efforts should remind Democrats nationwide not to run away from what they believe. It is hard to »

This near to the vote on the confirmation of Supreme Court nominee Samuel Alito LAW ’75, the judge’s judicial history requires attention. While Alito is experienced, his radically conservative judicial philosophy threatens the most basic of our constitutional rights and freedoms. This is clearly demonstrated by sifting through a damaging paper trail. The most vital »