CT Patch Candidate Profile: Andrew Parrella For State Senate

GROTON, CT — The 2024 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 at the top of the ticket, but every state representative and senate seat is up for grabs.

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

Andrew Parrella, of Groton, is running for state senate in the 18 District. He is running against incumbent Heather Somers.

Candidate’s Name: Andrew Parrella

What office are you seeking? State Senator

District: 18th Senatorial District

Campaign website

What city or town do you live in? Groton

Party affiliation: Democrat

Education: BA English from University of Connecticut, MEd. From Post University

Occupation: Executive Host Marketing 8 years

Family: Two sisters Joann & Judy, one brother David, friend/partner Christopher, two cats Scooter and Charmay and a dog Scooter..

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? N/A

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

Groton City Councilor 1990s, Conservation/Inland Wetland Commission 1990s, Beautification Committee 2020s, RTM 2020s

Age: 63

Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking to be State Senator to bring new ideas to Connecticut, to protect workers, the environment, education, healthcare, and make Connecticut a great place to live.

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

Maintaining adequate funding for city and towns including protecting the environment, workers, education, and healthcare while balancing affordable housing in the district.

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?

I would introduce a bill to lower the speed limit on major highways in Connecticut including I-95, I-84, and I-91 and mandate police enforcement.

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

My opponent takes credit for things like funding education yet then blames the opposite party for either funding it or cutting when it at times. My opponent clearly states environment success however has been on recorded that we should take open space for housing. I have been a much stronger advocate for open space preservation, including convincing the Copp family to keep that property undeveloped for passive recreation. I support stricter safety laws for the public that would keep dangerous criminals off the streets. I am a champion of labor as one of the founders of the AFT-CT-Healthcare Workers Union at L+M Hospital in New London. I presently spearheaded the restoration of cuts to the Groton Education Budget which was a success. I am a lifelong advocate of Connecticut and understand the wide range of issues facing Connecticut.

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

My many successes in elected and appointed government positions as well as my diverse work experience in healthcare, banking, education, media, marketing and entertainment make me the best and most experienced person to do the job.

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

I am a dedicated, knowledgeable person who believes in working together to make things better. This means holding people accountable and continuing to build on our strengths with a plan of action that will deliver outstanding results. By working together for our future, we can make Connecticut a great place to live.