CT Patch Candidate Profile: Martin Looney, State Senate 11th District

NEW HAVEN/HAMDEN, CT — Election Day on Nov. 5 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.

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

Candidate’s Name: Martin M. Looney

What office are you seeking? State Senate

District: 11th Senate District

What city or town do you live in? New Haven

Party affiliation: Democrat

Education: B.A. Fairfield University, (cum laude) M.A. University of Connecticut (English) J.D., University of Connecticut School of Law. Connecticut House of Representatives, State Representative, 96th District, 1981-1993, State Senator 11th District, 1993-present. State Senate Majority Leader, 2003-2015, State Senate President Pro Tempore 2015-present

Occupation: Attorney, adjunct University faculty and State Legislator

Family: Married, one adult son, three grandchildren.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? My son is employed by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

See above

Age: 76

Why are you seeking this office?

To continue my work as an advocate for progressive taxation, support for public education at all levels, and improved access to affordable high quality daycare and pre-school programs

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

Addressing social service needs and modifying the fiscal "guardrails" to achieve this goal

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?

Strong enforcement of DUI laws and transportation planning to avoid wrong way crashes.

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

My experience and accomplishments throughout my legislative career

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

Having been chosen by my colleagues as Majority Leader and as Senate President Pro Tempore

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

I believe that efficient, accountable government can be an effective instrument to improve the lives of the people of our state.