Patch Candidate Profiles 2022: Cynthia Mangini, 7th Senate District

NORTH-CENTRAL 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.

Cynthia Mangini, a Enfield resident, is running for State Senate in the 7th Senatorial District.

Campaign website: https://Manginiforsenate.com

Party affiliation: Democrat

Education: AA-Asnuntuck Community College, BA (Political Science) University of Connecticut, MS (Law) Western New England Universitye)-University of Connecticut

Occupation: Realtor-20+ years

Family: 3 children (40, 35, 33) and 4 grandchildren (12, 9, 5, 1)

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? No

Age: 68

Previous public office, appointive or elective: 21 years Enfield town council

Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking this office so I can be instrumental in making positive changes and advancements in our state

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

How our money is spent is a most pressing issue. I plan to work as a Senator to properly fund necessary projects and closely look at where we are spending money now.

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

One major difference is I would ensure that our district benefits from funds available through state funding which has not been done by the other candidate. Another difference is I will put the best interest of the people before any special interest groups. For example, the other candidate seeking reelection to this office has a vested interest in one of our major utility companies. This would cloud the other candidate's judgement on any vote involving that particular company.

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

The incumbent has failed to bring funding home to our district. Also, he has voted against the current budget which was one of the best we've had from the state in awhile. My opponent has voted against womens' reproductive rights, essentially not supporting women in his district. In addition, my opponent has voted against working families.

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

I want to ensure childrens' mental health care is expanded throughout our state. This will be accomplished through proper funding. Also, making sure the state budget has money for resources to further our education system.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Serving on the Enfield town council I have worked on the yearly municipal budget. I have a record of standing up for what is right and listening to the people's needs.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

To be honest and listen to others

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I want the voters to know that I am hard working and dedicated to the people