ENFIELD, CT — Republican Marie Pyznar is seeking the 58th House District seat in Enfield, with affordability and a review of state mandates among her priorities.
Pyznar, an Enfield town councilor and former deputy mayor, is challenging Democratic state Rep. John Santanella. Election Day is Nov. 3.
Here are the candidate's responses to Patch's questionnaire.
Candidate's Name:
Marie Pyznar
What office are you seeking?
State Representative
Age:
70
District:
58th
Party:
Republican
Campaign website:
Occupation:
Retired
Family:
Married to Jake Pyznar for 51 years. Two married daughters, four grandchildren.
Does anyone in your family work in government?
No
Previous public office:
Currently on Enfield Town Council as Councilor at Large 2021 - 2027, served as Deputy Mayor 2023-2025
Why are you seeking this office?
I believe my years of service on the Town Council have demonstrated my ability to work across party lines to get things done. That is exactly the kind of leadership we need in Hartford. I will work hard to bring people together, find common ground, and make Connecticut a state we can all be proud of.
What do you believe is the No. 1 issue facing Connecticut, and how do you plan to address it?
Affordability is my number one concern. We are seeing young graduates leave Connecticut in search of better opportunities, while seniors are moving to states where they can afford to retire.
Connecticut has too many unfunded mandates placed on local governments. These mandates leave municipalities struggling to cover the costs, often passing the burden on to taxpayers through higher property taxes.
I would fight for a thorough review and audit of existing mandates to determine which are necessary, which are outdated, and which are placing an unnecessary financial burden on our towns and residents.
Energy costs have been soaring in Connecticut. What are your plans to help address this issue?
The current administration has temporarily reduced the Public Benefits Charge, however, this reduction was accomplished through bonding. That doesn't eliminate the costs; it simply pushes them into the future, leaving taxpayers to pay for them later. This is not a permanent solution. When elected, I will fight for greater transparency in our electric bills, accountability for how these charges are determined, and long-term solutions that provide real relief to Connecticut families and businesses.
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Affordability has been a major topic across the country and here in Connecticut. How do you plan to address this issue?
As I mentioned, affordability is my top priority. Connecticut families work hard for their money, and they deserve a government that respects how those dollars are spent.
I will fight to reduce unnecessary spending, review costly unfunded mandates, and demand greater accountability from state government. We need to make responsible financial decisions that allow families, seniors, and small businesses to remain in Connecticut and thrive.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
Over the past five years serving on the Enfield Town Council, I have never been afraid to speak up, voice my concerns, or ask the tough questions. There have been times when I was the only "no" vote, and I am perfectly comfortable with that when I believe it is the right decision for our residents.
I have always worked to put Enfield residents first, fighting to keep taxes down while maintaining our town's infrastructure and essential services.
I believe my years on the Council have demonstrated my ability to work across party lines to get things done. I am not afraid of hard work, difficult decisions, or standing up for what I believe is right. I will bring that same dedication and work ethic to Hartford.
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
As a lifelong Enfield resident, giving back to my community has always been important to me.
When our daughters were growing up, I was an active PTO parent, supported their sports teams, coached softball, and taught religious education. For ten years I chaired Children Helping Children. A local group of children and their families that supported Enfield children diagnosed with a life threatening illness.
Outside of my Town Council responsibilities, I continue to volunteer weekly as a Eucharistic Minister at local nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
For the past 17 years, I have also been involved with the Amy Romano Field Hockey Scrimmage, an event that honors the memory of a wonderful Enfield teacher and coach while raising money for a scholarship in her name.
As a former small business owner, I understand the challenges businesses face. I currently serve on the Board of Directors of the North Central Chamber of Commerce, which allows me to stay connected with our local business community and better understand its needs.
Public service has never been about politics for me. It has always been about people. I believe in listening, working together, and doing what is right for our community.
When elected as State Representative for the 58th District, I will bring that same passion, dedication, and common-sense approach to Hartford.
For more Northern Connecticut news, follow Patch editor Jay Kenney.
Editor's note: Connecticut Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and the issues facing the state. The responses below were submitted by the candidate and reflect the candidate's views. Minor typographical corrections have been made.
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