April 4, 2008 - Elizabeth Esty Announces Candidacy
Elizabeth Esty (D), announced today that she has filed papers to run for state representative in the November elections. A two-term Councilwoman representing the First District of Cheshire, she will challenge Al Adinolfi (R) for the 103rd General Assembly district, which covers portions of Cheshire, Hamden, and Wallingford.
"Connecticut stands at a crossroads. We are a great state, but our economy is in trouble. We are losing jobs, our infrastructure is aging, and our young people are leaving the state. I think there is a unique opportunity for new, energetic leadership to help move us in a better direction," Esty said. "Part of that new leadership requires a new way of doing business. Through my experience on the Council over the last few years, I have seen what great results are possible when you pull people together, to listen to their concerns and to enlist their help in finding solutions. For example, we were able, with lots of public input and support, to design and adopt one of the most generous and innovative senior property tax relief programs in the state. I hope to use those same skills of listening to the public, working hard to explore alternatives, and building coalitions, to tackle problems in Hartford. First on that list is the need to help create good-paying jobs and keep them in Connecticut."
Mrs. Esty, an accomplished attorney, has practiced law, taught college students, and worked for change in Social Security policy, Medicare, and other health care issues. A Cheshire resident for more than a decade, she is very active in civic life. That involvement includes the Cheshire Public Library Board, the 1st Congregational Church Board of Trustees, PTAs for elementary, middle and high school, the League of Women Voters Consensus Project, and the Cheshire Public Works Strategic Planning Task Force, as well as being a baseball, soccer, karate, and hockey mom. As a mother of three children, (one in college, one in high school, and one in middle school), all of whom attend or attended public schools in Cheshire, Elizabeth knows the value of a strong educational system, but also the pressures that paying for education place on families and communities. As a member of the Budget Committee, she has been committed to fiscal responsibility and effective public services.
"I'm eager to begin campaigning and meeting people one-on-one in all three towns to hear their concerns," Esty said. "Speaking with people directly is absolutely the best way to keep a finger on the pulse of the community and to do the best job representing their interests." If elected, Esty plans to harness Connecticut's highly skilled work force, excellent educational system, and central location in New England, to create more and better jobs in the state. Policies that encourage small businesses, coupled with our unique position to capitalize on the current emphasis on green technology and alternative energy can, Esty believes, provide a strong foundation for a brighter future for Connecticut. An essential piece of the strategy is providing ways for small businesses to access affordable health care for their employees, and addressing the skyrocketing energy costs that are hurting our families and our businesses. "The challenges we face create real opportunities for us, if we take a new approach. It's an exciting time," Esty said, "and I look forward to working hard with and for the people of Cheshire, Wallingford, and Hamden."