Wednesday, October 16, 2024
HomeFeaturesPoliticsElection 2024 Candidate Profile: Paul Crisci

Election 2024 Candidate Profile: Paul Crisci

Editor’s Note: The candidates for State House and State Senate were given the opportunity to send HK-Now.com and Haddam Killingworth News a 450-word response to the question: “What do you bring to the table as a candidate, and what issues do you plan to focus on as a state legislator?” The statement below is from Republican State Senate Candidate Paul Crisci. Sen. Christine Cohen, the Democratic candidate seeking re-election to represent Killingworth in the State Senate, did not respond to our request. The candidate’s reply is unchanged from the original as submitted. HK-Now.com and Haddam Killingworth News are not responsible for errors in grammar, usage, punctuation or spelling.

 

As a proud resident of Connecticut and an advocate for our community, I am running for State Senate because I believe our state is at a critical juncture. We are facing serious challenges that demand action—not just talk—from our legislators. Connecticut consistently ranks as one of the most expensive states in the nation, with a cost-of-living index of 121.6. Our residents are being priced out, families are struggling, and young people are leaving for more affordable places to live. This isn’t just a statistic—it’s the reality many of us face every day.

Part of my plan to keep residents in Connecticut is Project 18-29 and Beyond. This initiative includes provisions for our seniors by eliminating the state income tax on Social Security while providing essential support for young people. By incentivizing businesses to hire young Connecticut residents aged 18 to 34 with well-trained, high-paying jobs, we will build a foundation of taxpayers eager to start families and open businesses in Connecticut, signaling that our state is business-friendly. Additionally, first-time homebuyers in this age group will receive tax credits, giving them a real opportunity to settle here and start building their futures. Project 18-29 and Beyond also encourages home improvements, making it easier for homeowners to invest in their properties and communities. This plan helps keep Connecticut families rooted and thriving in their hometowns, reversing the trend of young people leaving the state and ensuring strong communities for generations to come.

Public safety is another critical issue. Connecticut is facing a surge in crime, and the deadly fentanyl epidemic has hit our communities hard. Our police officers are on the front lines, risking their lives daily, and they need our full support to keep our families safe. As your State Senator, I will stand with law enforcement and ensure they have the resources necessary to stop the flow of drugs and secure our neighborhoods.

Energy costs are yet another concern. Connecticut residents are paying some of the highest energy rates in the country. Moreover, there’s a looming ban on gas-powered cars—a policy that many citizens oppose. This ban threatens to make transportation even more expensive and less accessible. I will work to lower energy costs and fight to remove this ban, ensuring Connecticut residents can make their own choices about what they drive.

When elected, I will fight for policies that create tangible improvements in our everyday lives, from lowering taxes to supporting law enforcement and reducing utility costs. That’s my commitment to you, and that’s why I’m asking for your vote. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant Connecticut.

Photo provided by Paul Crisci

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