Candidate Profile: Marc Riccio, 102nd District

CONNECTICUT — The 2020 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office. Eyes are primarily focused on the presidential election, but every state representative and senate seat is up for grabs. All five of Connecticut's congressional seats are up for grabs as well.

There are 151 seats in the state House of Representatives and 36 in the state Senate. Democrats currently hold majorities in both chambers with a 91 to 60 lead over Republicans in the House and a 22 to 14 lead in the Senate.

Connecticut Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Marc Riccio, a Branford resident, is running for House of Representatives District 102.

Age: 65

Party affiliation: Republican Party

Family:Kendra Riccio

Education: St. Anselms College, BA – Economics & Business; University of New Haven, MBA – Computer Science

Occupation:35

Previous elected experience: Branford RTM (6th District)

Family members in government: No

Campaign website: www.riccioforbranford.com

The single most pressing issue facing our state is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Hartford wants to bail out the cities using small towns property taxes. I will fight to prevent Hartford from raiding Branford (and other small towns) Rainy Day funds in order to pay the debts of cities like New Haven, Waterbury and Hartford. The Town of Branford property taxes should stay in Branford to pay for our education and town operations period.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

There are two critical differences between my opponent and me. First, my opponent voted and supports Defunding the Police. Marc Riccio supports the Police and First Responders and will oppose any Bills putting our Police Officers and communities in jeopardy. Second, my opponent voted and supports Regionalizing Schools which might merge the Branford School System with neighboring towns like East Haven or North Branford. Marc Riccio will not support School Regionalization.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

As a business leader for over 35 years, I have specialized in providing Disaster Recovery technology to Small Businesses, Fortune 500 and Governments. My experience is essential at this time in Hartford as we decide how to reopen the State of Connecticut. In addition, I have served the Town of Branford for the past 11 years providing essential budget oversight as an Elected Official in Branford.

Do you believe Connecticut needs reform when it comes to electric utility oversight? What steps, if any should be taken?

Yes - I believe electric utility reforms is needed. I will submit legislation to disband PURA (Public Utility Regulatory Authority) and recommend to replace with an independent body that includes representatives from Municipalities with the sole objective to protect Customer and Taxpayers money. This independent body will ensure our GRID is functioning properly and consumer prices stay low.

What steps should state government take to bolster economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic for local businesses?

Hartford has a spending problem. The Governor hired an out of state consulting company, at a cost of $2 million, to put together a plan on how to reopen the state.

I would immediately create a civilian board made up of Connecticut Business leaders advising the Governor and Legislature on what steps are need to reopen the State and Businesses and at the same time provide safety to employees.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

Reduce taxes by advocating common sense spending.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

My common sense is desperately needed in Hartford, especially at this time of profound economic uncertainty.

As an elected official in Branford, my main concern is how it financially impacts the citizens of Branford. Now I am ready to protect your hard-earned tax dollars in Hartford. I am excited to bring my extensive business and political experience to Hartford. It's time Branford citizens have a voice in Hartford. A Vote for Riccio is a Vote for Branford.