State Sen. Toni Boucher Makes Decision On Political Future

State Sen. Toni Boucher (R-26th) has decided to run for re-election to her Connecticut Senate post, and not seek the Republican nomination to run for governor, she announced Wednesday in Hartford.

Boucher, who has represented New Canaan, Wilton, Bethel, Redding, Ridgefield, Weston and Westport since 2008, had formed an exploratory committee last year while considering a run at the governor's office. Below is her full statement:

"Eight months ago, I initiated an exploratory campaign for the office of governor. As I’ve travelled around the state and met with so many wonderful people, I have been humbled by the outpouring of support I have been shown," said Boucher. "It has been a truly extraordinary and awe-inspiring experience. To those who volunteered their time, to those who generously provided financial support, and to my thousands of new friends across the state: please accept my sincerest, heartfelt gratitude.

"I love this state, and I have made a decision on how I can best serve my constituents and the people of Connecticut at this time.

"I am proud to announce today that I will run for re-election to the State Senate and, accordingly, will transition my exploratory committee and its donated funds to a campaign committee for the 26th State Senate District.

"The decision on how I can continue to best serve the people of our state has not been an easy one. It has been based on where I can do the most for my constituents, my party and the wonderful people of Connecticut. I believe that a lasting impact can be made in the General Assembly by attracting businesses; empowering the children of our state; bringing relief to the Connecticut commuter; and bringing a voice to the voiceless.

"The last eight months touring our state has deepened my belief that we have a tremendous amount of work to do in the legislature. The people and businesses of Connecticut are struggling. Their top concern is high costs. They feel the current leadership is failing by making Connecticut more unaffordable for them and their businesses.

"They are working hard to try to remain here, but they now find it may no longer be possible. My message of bringing fiscal stability and social inclusion to Connecticut has resonated throughout the state, and this will continue to be my priority.

"It has been an honor to serve in the state legislature. It is a rare privilege that I will never take for granted. As Chief Deputy Majority leader, Chair of both the Senate Transportation and Education Committees and Vice-Chair of the Finance Revenue and Bonding Committee, I know that victories lie ahead for the people of Connecticut.

"The November election will be one of the most important in memory and can change the direction of our state for the better for generations to come. After winning equal representation in the state senate two years ago, Republicans are only one seat away from a majority. I’m committed, along with my Republican colleagues, to make this happen so we can pursue policies that put our state back on solid economic footing and ensure a prosperous future for everyone who calls our state home. I will fight to make Connecticut a place where families and businesses can once again thrive in a climate of lower taxes, efficient government spending, improved highway and rail transportation and the opportunity for a quality education for all of our children.

"To my colleagues and friends in the legislature, I look forward to our work ahead bringing relief to taxpayers and crafting legislation comprised of responsible solutions that will reinvigorate our incredible state.

"Connecticut gave my family the opportunity to have a future when we emigrated from Italy when I was only five years old. I look forward to continuing to repay our state for the extraordinary opportunities given to me by serving in the Senate."

Senate Republican President Pro Tempore Len Fasano issued the following statement:

"Toni is one of hardest working people I know. For decades, she has been a tireless advocate committed to improving education, transportation and economic policies that create opportunities for all people. She is someone who never gives up and whose passion and energy is unmatched. The people of Connecticut, especially those in the 26th district, will continue to be well-served by Toni in the State Senate. She made an incredible candidate for governor, and I know no matter where she serves in state government she will always fight for her constituents and give them a voice in Hartford. She's not afraid to stand up for what she believes in, to make tough decisions and to push for the policies we need to move Connecticut forward."

Photo: State Sen. Toni Boucher (R-26th)

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