SHARE

Hwang, Fawcett Clash On Same-Sex Marriage In Senate Debate

FAIRFIELD, Conn. -- State Rep. Tony Hwang attempted to differentiate himself from his opponent in the race for the state Senate, state Rep. Kim Fawcett, on the topic of same-sex marriage at a Fairfield League of Women Voters’ debate on Monday night.

State Reps. Tony Hwang and Kim Fawcett's closing arguments at the Monday night debate.

Photo Credit: Salvatore Trifilio
Republican Tony Hwang and Democrat Kim Fawcett.

Republican Tony Hwang and Democrat Kim Fawcett.

Photo Credit: Salvatore Trifilio

The 28th District covers parts of Easton, Fairfield, Newtown, Weston and Westport. 

When asked by the mediator whether he “supported Connecticut’s position on same-sex marriage,” Hwang took the opportunity to speak about the integrity and morals that he said govern his opinions and decisions as a legislator.

“I unequivocally support an individual’s choice to find happiness and companionship, just as I support choice,” Republican candidate Hwang said. “With that said, I think one of the things that we need to discover and commit to as legislators is there comes a time when bills and legislation occur in which there is a stream of consciousness that we need to do what is right, what is fair and what is right.”

Although Hwang did not specifically attack Fawcett for her record on the hot-button issue, he did say that the vote for same-sex marriage is not a philosophy or a vote that you can “vote one way and then flip-flop another.”

“It is absolutely untrue that you cannot change your mind,” said Fawcett, who once voted against same-sex marriage. “I am one of the most controversial legislators on this issue because of a vote I cast five years ago.”

Fawcett believes her decisions were held upon her representation of the voters, adding “this country was a different place five years ago when it came to this issue.” Many people, organizations and religions have moved forward on the issue of same-sex marriage, she said.

“I, too, have the right to be part of that evolution,” said Fawcett, who said she now supports gay marriage.

Fawcett later took the opportunity to directly address Hwang's record in her closing statements.

Hwang and Fawcett are vying for the seat being vacated in District 28 by state Sen. John McKinney. McKinney lost in the Republican Party primary earlier this year for the gubernatorial race but had already said he would not run for re-election to the state Senate.

to follow Daily Voice Westport and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE