Patch Candidate Profiles 2022: Bob Hendrickson, 58th House District

ENFIELD, CT ? The 2022 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 gubernatorial election, but every state representative and senate seat is up for grabs. All five of Connecticut's congressional seats, plus one U.S. Senate seat, 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.

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

Bob Hendrickson, a Enfield resident, is running for election as State Representative in the 58th House District.

Campaign website: https://bobh58.takebackct.com/

Party affiliation: Republican

Education: Graduated high school and attended Western New England College

Occupation: Small business owner - food delivery

Family: I've been married to Kathie for 13 years. I have one son and one stepdaughter.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? No

Age: 57

Previous public office, appointive or elective: Commissioner at Inlands Wetlands & Watercourses Agency

Why are you seeking this office?

Over the past couple years I've witnessed our constitutional rights and freedoms being diminished and eroded. I never thought I would run for office but this year I realized I could make a difference in my community.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The economy and public safety. Democrat policies are responsible for high taxes, sky rocketing utilities and out of control inflation. The police accountability bill passed a couple years ago is failing to protect our citizens and should be fixed. I would work on reopening the Enfield courthouse. I would oppose tolls and truck taxes.

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

I will not be a rubber stamp.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

I would not have voted for one person rule for two years. I would not have voted for the police accountability bill.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

I would protect parents' rights and restore the religious exemption. Parents should have a say in what children are being taught in school as well as what goes in their bodies.

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

The past 40 years I've been a manager of a major grocery business. I know how to manage a budget and how to serve the public responsibly.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Work hard for the customer you have now because it takes twice as much work to get them back.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I believe a representative from Enfield should put Enfield first, always. On November 8th, please vote for me as your next state representative in the 58th district.