Jennifer Leeper Has Earned Another Term

As Fairfield voters consider who should represent us in Hartford, I strongly encourage my neighbors to support State Representative Jennifer Leeper for reelection.

Jenn has distinguished herself as a thoughtful and effective advocate for public education — an issue that is fundamental both to Fairfield families and to the long-term strength of our community.

Her selection to serve as House Chair of the General Assembly’s Education Committee speaks to the respect she has earned from her colleagues and the leadership role she now plays in shaping education policy statewide. More importantly, she has used that position to focus on the difficult issues facing our schools: how Connecticut funds public education, the rapidly growing cost of special education, support for teachers and students, and how the state can better partner with local school districts. We are fortunate to have a representative who not only understands Fairfield's schools but now has a significant voice in determining education policy for the entire state.

The results of Jenn’s work matter directly to Fairfield. Every additional dollar of state support that is appropriated for education is a dollar that does not have to fall entirely on local property taxpayers. This past year she secured a 75% reimbursement rate on the Dwight School rebuild project, which translates to a cost savings to taxpayers of $57 million. Jenn understands that maintaining excellent schools and protecting taxpayers are not competing objectives. Sound state education policy can — and should — advance both.

Jenn has also been a strong advocate for Fairfield residents who are frustrated by high electric bills and the power of our monopoly utilities. She has pushed for greater accountability and stronger consumer protections, challenging a system in which customers have little choice while bearing ever-increasing costs. Her willingness to take on UI over their desire to install monopoles through Southport is another example of the practical, constituent-focused leadership she brings to Hartford.

At a time when politics too often rewards volume over substance, Jenn’s kind of leadership deserves recognition. Jennifer Leeper has earned another term representing Fairfield in Hartford. I am proud to enthusiastically support her and encourage my neighbors to do the same.

Bob Ellwanger

Member, Town of Fairfield Board of Finance