Canton Republican Announces Bid For State Senate Seat

CANTON — Andrew Ziemba, a Republican from Canton, has announced his candidacy for the Connecticut State Senate in the 8th District.

He made the announcement Friday outlining a campaign focused on affordability, government accountability, and local control.

Ziemba is looking to oust state Sen. Paul Honig, D-Harwinton, from the 8th Senate District.

The 8th Senate serves Avon, Barkhamsted, Canton, Colebrook, Hartland, New Hartford, Norfolk, Simsbury, and parts of Torrington, Harwinton, and Granby.

Ziemba, 39, said he is running to address what he described as high taxes, rising utility costs, and overreach by state government leaders.

“Connecticut residents face some of the highest taxes and utility costs in the nation. This affordability crisis isn’t new, and neither are the failed solutions offered by Democratic leadership. For 15 years under one-party rule, the results speak for themselves. It’s time for a different direction — one that prioritizes fiscal responsibility, demands accountability, and respects local control,” Ziemba said in a statement.

A longtime Farmington Valley resident and 2005 graduate of Canton High School, Ziemba lives in the Collinsville section of Canton with his wife and two sons.

He said he has spent most of his adult life as a small business owner and previously served on Canton’s Board of Finance.

Ziemba said his experience in local government gave him insight into how state policies affect municipalities.

His campaign priorities include property tax relief, eliminating what he called regressive taxes, and reforming energy policy to lower costs and increase grid base load stability.

“As a residential solar consultant, I understand our grid and the mess we’re in. We can fix it, starting with eliminating the Public Benefits Charge on your electric bill,” Ziemba said.

Ziemba also said he would focus on preserving local control, parental rights, and individual liberty.

“Misguided politicians in Hartford believe that unelected bureaucrats know better than you how to manage your town, raise your children, and live your life. I’ll stand up to that out-of-touch mindset,” he said.

He said he intends to run a campaign centered on civility and independence.

“My allegiance is to the Constitution and to the people,” Ziemba said. “I’m running to represent everyone with respect and to ensure that every person has a chance to achieve and maintain the American Dream right here in Connecticut.”

From Jan. 9: 'Honig Announces Re-Election Bid For 8th Senate District.'