CT Patch Candidate Profile: Corey Paris For State Representative

STAMFORD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 5 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot in Stamford.

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 145th State House District covers a portion of Stamford.

Candidate’s Name

Corey P. Paris

What office are you seeking?

State Representative

District

145th House District

Campaign website

What city or town do you live in?

Stamford

Party affiliation

Democrat

Education

Western Connecticut State University (BS), Political Science

Occupation

Non-Profit Executive

Age

33

Why are you seeking this office?

My passion for public service has always been driven by a desire to make meaningful change, and as State Representative, I’ve had the honor of doing just that. I’m running to continue fighting for an equitable future—where housing is affordable, education is accessible, and healthcare is a right, not a privilege. I chose Connecticut as my home, and I’m deeply invested in its success, not just for my family but for all families across the district. I want to continue building a state where opportunity is within reach for everyone, and where our communities thrive for generations to come.

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

The biggest issue facing Connecticut right now is affordability. Families across the state feel pressure from high housing costs, rising healthcare expenses, and the growing burden of student loan debt. We must take decisive action on several fronts. This includes expanding affordable housing, reducing cost burdens for working families, and supporting young professionals. Additionally, we need to further invest in the bookend education levels —early childhood to higher education—to ensure that every resident has the opportunity to succeed.

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?

This issue is deeply personal to me, as I lost a friend due to a tragic incident on Connecticut’s roadways. These heartbreaking losses remind us of the urgent need for action. From a legislative standpoint, we need to improve road safety through more robust enforcement of traffic laws, increasing penalties for reckless driving, and expanding infrastructure improvements like better lighting, signage, and pedestrian crossings. Ultimately, it’s about protecting lives, and I’m committed to working on legislation that makes our roads safer for everyone.

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

I can point to my nearly twelve-year career in the nonprofit sector, where I’ve dedicated my life to advocating for social justice, education, and economic empowerment. That experience has shaped my ability to listen, collaborate, and find solutions that make a real difference. Additionally, my successful two terms as state representative have allowed me to lead on critical issues like passing a historic budget, securing millions in funding for our city, and expanding access to marginalized voices. I’m proud of my record and committed to continuing to deliver results for the people of Stamford.

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

I would point to several vital accomplishments demonstrating my ability to handle this job. First, as a nonprofit executive, I’ve successfully led efforts to secure millions of dollars in funding for programs benefiting under-resourced communities. My experience navigating complex challenges and building partnerships to drive impact has been invaluable. As a state representative and with colleagues, I’ve passed a $56.6 billion budget, including the largest income tax cut in state history and significant investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. I also authored and led the passage of bipartisan legislation to ensure high school students graduate with financial literacy skills and launched a student loan reimbursement program to address Connecticut’s $19.8 billion in student debt.

These accomplishments show my ability to lead, collaborate, and deliver actual results for our residents.