Connecticut Patch Candidate Profile: Rick LeBorious For State Rep

ENFIELD-EAST WINDSOR, CT — Election Day on Nov. 5, 2024, is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot in Connecticut.

Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing the state and town.

Candidate’s Name: Rick LeBorious

What office are you seeking? State Representative

District: 59th House District

Campaign website

What city or town do you live in? East Windsor

Party affiliation: Democrat

Education: Enfield Public Schools, Currently studying at Central Connecticut State University

Occupation: Owner of smal own a small business in Enfield. United Metalworking Industries

Family: Wife: Betsy Grigely LeBorious - Retired educator and artist Three children: Meghan LeBorious Courtney Eder Devon LeBorious Two grandchildren: Simon Pizzarro Johannah Eder.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective: Beginning with my appointment in 1975 as an Enfield Planning and Zoning Commissioner, I have served in many appointed and elected positions in Enfield including: Mayor and Deputy Mayor, District Councilman, Councilman At-Large, member of multiple Charter Revision Commissions, several non-profit Boards, and the Diversity Council. I served as a representative to many regional, state and national organizations. I was also the chair of the East Windsor Democratic Town Committee and I was a member of the Enfield Democratic Town Committee. In addition, I have led many campaigns for Democratic candidates in both communities.

Age: 74

Why are you seeking this office?

I am running for State Representative in the 59th House District to represent the residents of Enfield and East Windsor because I want our communities to thrive. I want to help our families succeed and to create a state that is more affordable for everyone. I am a husband, father, grandfather and small business owner. I grew up in the Brainerd Park neighborhood of Enfield. A neighborhood rich with friends and neighbors who looked out for one another. Enfield was and remains a wonderful place for children and families to grow and learn. A number of years ago, my wife Betsy and I moved to the Broad Brook section of East Windsor. We were sad to leave Enfield, but her aging parents needed some help. While I missed Enfield, I came to love East Windsor. I consider Enfield and East Windsor to both be my hometowns. I feel a deep connection and commitment to Enfield and East Windsor. Both communities have great prospects for bright futures for all their citizens. I want to be part of finding ways to once again build our connections with each other and to our community. I want to help encourage the recognition of our shared values and purpose.

What do you believe is the No. 1 issue facing Connecticut, and how do you plan to address it?

Affordability is Connecticut's No. 1 issue. I will work every day to try to address issues like high utility costs and housing prices and availability.

There have been an alarming number of deaths on Connecticut's roadways. Is there anything from a legislative standpoint that can be done to address that?

Encourage strict enforcement of existing speed and traffic laws.

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

I understand the needs of the people living in East Windsor and Enfield, the two communities that make up the 59th House District. For too long, East Windsor voters have been ignored on the state level. I will make sure that I listen and represent all voters in my district. My opponent has failed to deliver on important issues facing the district including education and economic development funding. I will work hard to serve the residents of my district.

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

I have been an active member of the East Windsor and Enfield communities throughout my life. I served as Enfield’s Mayor and Deputy Mayor and I took pride in helping the people of my community. I will continue to work every day to listen and understand the needs of my towns and I will represent all the voters of my district, when I am elected State Representative.

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

When I am elected, I will work on your behalf on issues that include education funding. I have been an active supporter of our public schools throughout my adult life. I will strive to provide the best possible funding and policies that assure our students and teachers the tools they need to excel. I will not let the children of the 59th House District be short-changed when it comes to public school funding. I will work to eliminate the gas tax, to reduce income taxes for seniors and to ensure everyone has affordable health care I’ll work collaboratively with local and state officials to ensure that communities have a greater voice when siting industrial solar arrays. I’ll use my decades of experience as the owner of small business, to increase blue collar jobs and strengthen manufacturing. I will make sure women’s health rights and LGBTQ+ rights are protected. And I will work to make Connecticut a more affordable place to live. I will work every day on the state level to help all our families prosper and grow.