Candidate Profile: George Logan, 17th Senatorial District

NAUGATUCK, 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.

George Logan, an Ansonia resident, is running for reelection to the 17th Senatorial District, which includes Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Derby, and parts of Hamden, Naugatuck and Woodbridge.

Age: 51

Party affiliation: Republican Party

Family: Wife LIsa, Children Hunter and Tracey

Occupation:Director, Community Relations

Previous elected experience: State Senator, 17th District

Family members in government: Wife is an R.N. for CT DMHAS

Campaign website: reelectlogan.com

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

The most important challenge facing our state is affordability. We are pricing our citizens out of the state through ever-increasing taxes and raising the cost of doing business which translates to higher prices for everyone. Our children are moving out of state for better paying jobs and our seniors are struggling to maintain their quality of life on fixed incomes. Those in the lower and middle class see few options to prosper in the state’s current condition.

The solution to our affordability has two parts: reign in the state’s spending and attract good paying jobs back to the state. Employers need to see Connecticut as a well-run, fiscally responsible place to invest and grow their business. This means no more tax increases, no more unfunded mandates from Hartford and no more wasteful spending. If we can accomplish this, we will create vibrant economy with better paying jobs and thus more taxpayers, relieving the tax burden currently on those who are here.

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

The critical difference is the role of government. I believe in the free market system and smaller government and my opponent supports policies than lean toward socialism.

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

My two terms as an active, issue-oriented state senator and the feedback I receive from my constituents on a regular basis indicate I'm handling the job well.

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

The State Senate just overwhelmingly passed legislation that tightens utility company oversight. Senator Logan voted yes for this legislation. The steps include performance-based regulation that will benefit electric customers and will hold the utilities accountable.

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

Connecticut's economy has to reopen, and it can, safely. We need people to get back to work. The bi-partisan 2017-2018 state budget, which Senator Logan voted "yes" for, has generated a $3B Rainy Day Fund, some of which can be used to support struggling businesses and families.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

Other important issues include affordable healthcare and investing in our education system. Senator Logan has a strong track record in Hartford of advocating, sponsoring and voting for numerous bills to improve healthcare coverage, while keeping insurance premiums in check. The future of our children and our state is grounded in our education system. In Senator Logan’s view, the role of state government is to provide necessary funding for local schools, support teachers, and create a safe and quality environment where all children can thrive.

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

Senator is a strong supporter of our law enforcement professionals and opposed to recent anti-police bill passed over his "no" vote in the Senate. This bill did not properly address the issue of police reform and he plans to propose corrections to the flawed legislation in the very next session.