Patch Candidate Profiles 2022: David Stavens, 57th House District

ELLINGTON-EAST WINDSOR-VERNON, 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.

David Stavens, a Ellington resident, is running for election as state representative in the 57th House District - Ellington, East Windsor, Vernon.

Campaign website

https://www.stavensforct.com

Party affiliation

Republican

Education

Civil Engineering Degree

Occupation

Business owner for over 20 years

Family

I've been married to my wife, Heather for 30 years. I have five kids, three that are still in school.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

My oldest daughter, Erin, is currently serving on Tolland's Planning & Zoning Commission.

Age

59

Previous public office, appointive or elective

Currently I'm Ellington's Deputy First Selectman. I have been on the Board of Selectmen since 2015. Prior to that I was on Planning & Zoning. I have also served on the Permanent Building Committee.

Why are you seeking this office?

I am running because Connecticut needs change. My experience as a business owner and Board of Selectman have given me the skills and perspective to get this state back on track for our residents.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Affordability. I would like to eliminate unnecessary taxes that are hurting our constituents. We need to pass more responsible budgets and not rely on federal surpluses.

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

I understand the struggles CT has made our local businesses face. As a business owner, I plan to help make CT more business friendly.

I have more local experience when it comes to serving our community and this district. From volunteering my resources towards town projects to serving on town boards, I know and understand my constituents.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

They have voted against religious exemption, as well as voted against the agricultural exemption amendment when it came to the Truck Tax that was passed in a previous session.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Paying down the state debt, juvenile crime, contaminated wells, crumbling foundations