Candidate Profile: Kathy Hoyt, 88th District

HAMDEN, CT — The 2020 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 presidential election, but every state representative and senate seat is up for grabs. All five of Connecticut's congressional seats 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 with a 91 to 60 lead over Republicans in the House and a 22 to 14 lead in the Senate.

Connecticut Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Kathy Hoyt, a Hamden resident, is running for election to the House of Representatives District 88.

Age: 56

Party affiliation: Republican Party

Family: Shane Hoyt Logan Hoyt

Occupation: Real Estate Agent, 18 years. Prior to that, Education

Previous elected experience: None

Campaign website: HoytforHamden.com

The single most pressing issue facing our state is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Fiscal responsibility. We need to stop the continued increase of taxes to our citizens. People cannot afford it, and it is driving our businesses and residents out of the state in a mass exodus. We need to identify wasteful spending at the state level, and create a way to streamline government to make it more efficient. We need more transparency in government, and more accountability with state agencies. I will fight to have stricter controls placed on spending, and create policies that promote business growth in the state.

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

There are many differences between my opponent and I. My opponent lacks concern in regard to the impact of additional taxes, and escalating costs for Hamden residents, voting and supporting many bills to further increase taxes in the State. When elected I will not vote to increase the budget, or increase taxes. I believe we need to make CT more affordable for our residents. He calls for dismantling the police, I am a firm supporter of our Hamden police department. My opponent believes in big government. I would like to see a smaller government, leading to a more efficient and flexible system. The most glaring difference, however, is I am dedicated to the Hamden community. I will give my energy, time, and focus to the 88th district, and the State of CT. It appears my opponent has a very different agenda. His ideals, thoughts, concerns and energy lay at a broader level, lacking a focus for his district and constituents.

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

I am a former educator, administrator, and currently a small business owner in Hamden. I am also a mom of 2 young men. With this background I have acquired strong leadership skills, along with enthusiasm, determination, and optimism! The bottom line is I get things done. One of the most important skills I have learned is to listen. Understanding and empathy, so lacking in much political discussion and debate, don’t come from being a good talker. They come from active, empathetic, inclusive listening. I feel that with these professional, personal and life skills I am positioned to be a successful representative for the 88th district.

Do you believe Connecticut needs reform when it comes to electric utility oversight? What steps, if any should be taken?

Opening our state for competition for utilities, rather than signing exclusive contracts with individual companies, therefore creating monopolies, would ensure better quality and more competitive rates for the people of CT.

What steps should state government take to bolster economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic for local businesses?

CT has been ranked as the least friendly place to run a business. Looking past covid, making CT a successful place to run a business needs to be a focus and priority. As a business owner I understand these challenges. Another step to encourage recovery is to bring back the general assembly. One person cannot grasp the needs of the entire state. The general assembly should be reconvened.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

Education is a top priority for me. We need to continue to focus on maximizing educational opportunities, programs and training for the students in our communities. As a proud daughter of a WW2 Veteran, I will support veterans, service members, and their families. I am committed to supporting the Hamden Police department and their continued efforts to keep Hamden a safe place to live and work.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

My goal is to make Hamden, and the state of Connecticut an affordable and desirable place to live and work again. A place where business flourishes, families move to the state to seek excellent opportunities, and people are comfortable retiring. I have no desire to be a career politician, my aspiration is to fight for, and represent the people of the 88th district at the state level. To be part of a positive change for our community.