CT Patch Candidate Profile: Vincent Candelora For State Representative

NORTH BRANFORD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 5 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot in North Branford.

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

The 86th State House District covers North Branford and portions of Durham, East Haven, and Guilford.

Candidate’s Name

Vincent J. Candelora

What office are you seeking?

State Representative 86th District

District

86th

Campaign website

What city or town do you live in?

North Branford

Party affiliation

Republican

Education

Juris Doctorate

Occupation

Business Owner

Family

I have three college aged children.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Previous public office, appointive or elective

North Branford town Council, 2000–2007; state representative 2007 to present

Age

54

Why are you seeking this office?

I have served in the 86 district for 18 years. I’ve enjoyed serving my constituency and shaping policies that help improve the lives of the people in Connecticut.

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

Our biggest issue is reconnecting our youth. I believe we need to reengage our young generation by creating programs That will bring them back into the classroom, engaging sports and healthy activity. Connecticut needs to begin providing structure for our youth, including appropriate measures of accountability so that they grow up to be responsible productive adults.

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?

We need to allow police officers to pursue vehicles again, and restore drug use as a probable cause to pull over a vehicles. I believe we need an education campaign on the impacts of drugged driving given the proliferation of commercial marijuana.

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

I am unopposed.

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

I am currently House Republican leader. I’ve helped craft Connecticut’s budgets over years which lead to the fiscal guardrails and largest tax decrease in Connecticut’s history.