NAUGATUCK, CT — The 2022 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 gubernatorial 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
Connecticut Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.
Jorge Cabrera, a Hamden resident, is running for the 17th State Senate District.
Campaign website
https://JorgeCabreraCT.com
Party affiliation
Democratic Party, Independent Party, Working Families Party
Education
Quinnipiac University
Occupation
Business Representative
Family
Rebecca Cabrera (wife), Gabriel and Jorge Cabrera (sons)
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
no
Age
48
Previous public office, appointive or elective
Incumbent State Senator
Why are you seeking this office?
I am seeking re-election because I want to continue my work of putting people before politics. Working for common sense solutions to help my constituents achieve their dreams. I want to continue my work to make health care more affordable, create jobs that pay a living wage, make sure we have safe communities and amazing schools.
Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.
Inflation and the high cost of living. I intend to make sure we rein in high prices, making sure our seniors have the support they need to thrive and work toward lowering our high energy prices.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
The major differences are my years of experience working to make people’s lives better, my knowledge of the public policy making process and my track record of success serving the people of the 17th district.
If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?
N/A
What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Lowering taxes on middle class families, working to keep our streets safe and ensuring our state is fiscally responsible.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I would cite the millions of dollars I have brought back to my district such as a new firehouse, new community centers, renovated senior centers, money for new roads and bridges and more money for our law enforcement officers.
What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Be yourself. Stay humble and work hard.
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I believe that there is nothing we can’t accomplish if we work together, work hard and avoid extreme politics. I put people before first.
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