2026 Patch Candidate Profiles: Kurt Vail, State Representative

MANCHESTER, CT — Kurt Vail is running for state representative in the 52nd District.

Candidate's Name:

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Kurt Vail

What office are you seeking?

State Representative

Age:

58

District:

52nd House Assembly District

Party:

Republican

Campaign website:

https://votevail.com/

Occupation:

School Security, Private Investigator

Family:

Three daughters: Hannah 27, Sarah 20, Vivian 16. Son: Noah 25

Does anyone in your family work in government?

No

Previous public office:

Why are you seeking this office?

I've had the great pleasure of representing the 52nd for the last twelve years and it's been very rewarding. Building relationships in the community and in Hartford is essential to being a good representative and listening to people and fighting and advocating for their needs. I've built those relationships but I'm constantly growing that network so that I can be the most effective. I have more work to do and that's why I'm seeking this office again.

What do you believe is the No. 1 issue facing Connecticut, and how do you plan to address it?

Affordability. I plan on continuing to address this issue by advocating for government transparency, each state agency's budget should be public record. We need to constantly evaluate if there is real value in the programs we are investing taxpayer dollars in. I will continue to fight against state mandates on our local towns and eliminate the state mandated surcharges on electric bills. We should permanently eliminate the gross receipts portion of our state tax on fuel. We have two state taxes on gas, a flat 25 cent tax and a gross receipts tax that actually increases when prices increase making the prices at the pumps even more unbearable here in Connecticut. Also, surveillance cameras, like Flock and others, is a concern for many people and I agree. No one, government or private companies, should be able to surveil us and share our personal information. I think these cameras should not be allowed to be used and I will fight to make that happen. Our liberty is at stake. If there's the will to use these cameras, then we can listen to the pros and cons, build parameters and guidelines that don't infringe on our civil liberties, and pass responsible and common sense legislation.

Energy costs have been soaring in Connecticut. What are your plans to help address this issue?

As I said above, eliminating state mandated surcharges on electric bills is a start. Holding our utilities companies accountable and make sure they have oversight that they are being good community partners and not overcharging their customers because they're the only game in town. Some municipalities have their own utility companies and are paying way less, incentivizing other communities to do the same should be explored. Again, as I said above, eliminating the gross receipts portion of the gas tax would help us all at the pumps.

Affordability has been a major topic across the country and here in Connecticut. How do you plan to address this issue?

See above

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

The key is listening to the people in your district and helping them find solutions, whether it is working with individuals to solve issues that may have with state agencies or developing bill ideas to make better policy for all the citizens. I've had success in helping people navigate through state bureaucracy and it very satisfying to get positive results for them. I've been able to work on many policies and bills that I think have had a positive impact on our community but I think the most impactful issue that I've been able to work on and help find solutions to, with community partners and colleagues, is the crumbling foundation issue that has plagued my district and North Central Connecticut in general. Well over 1000 homes have been lifted and their basements replaced, it's a huge accomplishment and I'm proud to have played a role in it.

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

It's been an honor to represent Somers, Stafford, Union, and Woodstock and I still have the same passion I've always had to continue to work to serve this community and hold our government in Hartford accountable to its citizens. I've built the relationships needed to be successful, both in the community and at the Capitol, it's essential in good governance to listen and work with people to find the best solutions. I will continue to do so and grow if you will once again give me the opportunity to do so.