Candidate Profile: Vincent Candelora, 86th 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.

Vincent Candelora, a North Branford resident is running for House of Representatives District 86, representing Guilford, North Branford, Durham, and Wallingford.

Age: 50

Party affiliation: Republican Party

Family: Wife, Carolyn. Children, Christopher, Thomas, and Ava

Occupation: Attorney and Manager of Connecticut Sportsplex, 25 years

Previous elected experience: North Branford Town Council 2001-2007; State Representative 2007-Present

Family members in government: No

Campaign website: https://reelectcandelora.com/

The single most pressing issue facing our state is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.
The current pandemic is the biggest issue facing the state. It's impact is widespread on the state budget, education, jobs and the economy. While the pandemic may be short-term, the impacts won't be. I believe the state needs to begin analyzing metrics beyond just the virus itself, but we need to analyze the social, emotional and educational impacts on our children. As the spread remains under control, we have to develop plans for in-classroom learning, especially for special needs children. We need to provide assistance to our nursing home population to allow for safe visitation of family members. Many of our family members are dying in isolation, and we have to find a way to bring families together. I believe we need to suspend permit fees for businesses, like restaurants and banquet halls, which still remain closed. Lastly, closing the budget deficit is critical. The state cannot drain the rainy day fund to cover the shortfall. We need to begin the process of balancing this current year's budget.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I've tirelessly served this district in many capacities. By being heavily involved in sports, my local church, and organizations like Rotary, I've learned what's important to the residents in the 86th District. I've made myself approachable and offer the residents direct constituent services, especially in these difficult times.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
One of my proudest accomplishments was authoring the 2017 bipartisan budget which lead to no tax increases, the elimination of the income tax on social security and pensions, and created a spending an revenue cap which lead to a $3 billion budget savings account. I've consistently reached across the other side of the aisle to craft legislation. In 2019, I co-sponsored Ethan's Law, a law that strengthened the safe storage of firearms and had the most bipartisan support of any gun reform bill in Connecticut's history. I believe when politics are put to the side, we can accomplish a lot.

Do you believe Connecticut needs reform when it comes to electric utility oversight? What steps, if any should be taken?
I believe that Connecticut needs to implement performance standards for our utility companies. The state must impose minimum staffing levels. I think PURA, Connecticut's oversight agency, should have independent status from the state as it can act in the best interest of ratepayers outside of any other agency influence.

What steps should state government take to bolster economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic for local businesses?
Connecticut needs to suspend certain costly licenses and fees for businesses that are not allowed to fully operate. The state should provide financial assistance for businesses that need to retrofit their facilities as we enter the winter months. Certain businesses, like tourism and hospitality, have been severely impacted. The state should look at suspending certain admissions and sales taxes for these businesses as they reopen.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

No answer provided.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
Having served the district for many years, I've appreciated that there are no wrong or right answers. I avoid party labels and try to focus on the substance of the issues, rather than the personality or politics. I think it's important to encourage and engage in this type of dialogue, especially in these volatile times.