Candidate Profile: David W. Yaccarino, 87th District

NORTH HAVEN, CT — 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.

David W. Yaccarino, a North Haven resident, is running for re-election to the House of Representatives District 87.

Age: 62

Party affiliation: Republican Party
Endorsed by the CT Independent party

Family: 3 Children, David, Joseph and Carolyn

Occupation: Owner of DJ’s cards & comics - 29 years

Previous elected experience:State representative 87th district North Haven, CT

Family members in government: Yes, my daughter Carolyn is chairwoman of North Haven's zoning board of appeals, my son Joseph worked for Bob Stefanowski Govenor's campaign in 2018, David is running for State Representative in East Haven.

Campaign website: Do not have one. I have a State Representative site

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

COVID-19, unemployment, budget. My commitment to science, working to help countless numbers of constituents with unemployment benefits or insurance, working to pass a balanced budget on time with efficiency’s and no tax increases.

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

My willingness to work across party lines and my work ethic. I always have and will put people before party or politics.

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

Passing the largest expansion of Bioscience in CT. I’ve been advocated for this important industry for the past 10 years., Connecticut science community along with high paying jobs are growing. My work ethic for my fellow residents and constituents.

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

Yes it does. September 30th of 2020 we passed a utility bill that gives (PURA) which oversees CT utility companies. We strengthen the time frame in which companies have to restore power, in the bill there are monetary provisions for customers prescriptions and food if the utility companies do not restore power within 96 hours. Under this legislation, the power companies cannot just increase rates. If fortunate enough to be re-elected I will continue to work to strengthen this important first step we took last week.

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

We were fortunate to have the federal stimulus in late spring and early summer. The PPP (payroll protection plan) was a great help to Connecticut businesses and families. As North Haven’s State Representative I’ve worked day and night helping people with their unemployment benefits. We need to continue opening up Connecticut businesses safely, Connecticut residents have handled COVID-19 amazingly well, under terrible circumstances. The best thing we can do is work together as legislators with our Governor to put forth a balanced on time. I will continue to work with our local businesses, I’ve had 35 years of experience running a business.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

Jobs, education, public safety, helping all people, fighting for our veterans, seniors, families and people in need. Always putting people and North Haven first!

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

I love North Haven, I grew up here and raised with their Mom, 3 amazing children. I always strive to do the most good for the most people all the time. I will continue to work on growing the sciences, jobs, education dollars for North Haven along with greater dollar’s for special needs education. I’m a strong supporter of all public safety... our first responders and men and women that serve our country in the arm force’s. Always North Haven first! I do volunteer helping the homeless, both homeless veterans and civilians. Volunteer at North Haven schools on a regular basis reading and having healthy congratulations with all. Hold regular office hours, the job is 24/7 I’m so honored to serve the wonderful people of North Haven. I served in the United States Navy Reserve. Thank you, Dave