Candidate Profile: Joe Gresko, 121st State House District

STRATFORD, 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 U.S. presidential election, but every state representative and senate seat is up for grabs. All five of Connecticut's congressional seats, plus one U.S. Senate seat, are up for grabs as well.

There are 151 seats in the state House of Representatives and 36 in the state Senate. Democrats currently hold majorities in both chambers.

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

Joseph P. Gresko, 60, of Stratford, is running for re-election to the House of Representatives in the 121st District, representing Stratford.

Campaign website

Party affiliation: Democrat

Education: BS in Environmental Science

Occupation: Special green projects coordinator

Family: Large extended family.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

Yes. Stratford Town Council, Stratford Inland Wetlands

Why are you seeking this office?

To continue serving the Stratford community and complete projects still needing work.

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

Continued fiscal improvements and fiscal responsibility. Maintaining the guardrails while investing in services and non profits

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?

Creative enforcement of our current laws without risk of life and/or liability.

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

I have years of proven results serving the residents of Stratford. I've focused my career on public service. I take the trust of town residents seriously. I'm easily accessible.

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

Additional education funding, state grants given to Stratford (Fletcher African American Museum, South End Community Center, Stratford Library) and working side by side with local non profits (YMCA) and the municipal government.

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

As the House Chair of the Environment Committee, I've been successful in protecting Long Island Sound, removing PFA's from items and preserving open space. With eight years of seniority, I'm able to bring funds back to Stratford and influence language in bills to better benefit Stratford.