STAMFORD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 3 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.
Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing the state and city.
Pat Billie Miller is running for re-election in the 27th State Senate District, which covers portions of Stamford and Darien.
Candidate's Name:
Pat Billie Miller
What office are you seeking?
State Senator
Age:
71
District:
27th
Party:
Democrat
Campaign website:
Occupation:
Retired
Family:
2 daughters and 2 grandsons
Does anyone in your family work in government?
No
Previous public office:
State Senator, 27th District: 2021 - Current; State Representative, 145th District: 2008 - 2021; Stamford Board of Representative: 2007 -2008
Why are you seeking this office?
During my time in the Senate, I have worked to secure funding for our communities, strengthen our schools, support local organizations, and advance legislation that improves the lives of Connecticut residents. I have also worked to ensure that our district's needs and concerns are heard in Hartford.
There is still important work to do. I want to continue addressing the rising cost of living, expanding access to affordable housing and homeownership, lowering electricity costs, strengthening our economy, and creating more opportunities for our families and businesses.
I am seeking re-election because I believe leadership is about more than promises; it is about showing up, delivering results, and remaining accountable to the people you serve. I am proud of what we have accomplished, and I look forward to building on that progress and continuing the work of making our district and Connecticut a better place to live, work, retire, and raise a family.
What do you believe is the No. 1 issue facing Connecticut, and how do you plan to address it?
I believe the number one issue facing Connecticut is affordability. The rising cost of living affects nearly every aspect of our lives, from housing and electricity to property taxes, health care, child care, and everyday necessities. Families are struggling to make ends meet, young people are finding it increasingly difficult to buy their first homes, and seniors are concerned about whether they can afford to remain in their homes.
At its core, affordability is about quality of life and opportunity. Everyone should have the chance to achieve financial security and enjoy a better future in Connecticut.
Addressing this challenge requires an approach that recognizes how these costs affect people differently. I will continue to advocate for policies that ease the financial pressures on our residents, strengthen our municipalities, and expand economic opportunities.
Energy costs have been soaring in Connecticut. What are your plans to help address this issue?
High electricity costs continue to put a strain on Connecticut families and businesses. I hear the concerns about rising energy bills, and I understand the impact these costs have on household budgets and the ability of businesses to operate. While we have taken steps to provide immediate relief, more must be done to address the underlying costs of generating and delivering electricity.
My focus is on finding practical ways to lower electricity bills by diversifying our energy supply, supporting cost-effective energy sources, and strengthening oversight to identify unnecessary costs and charges.
The Revolution Wind project is one example of an effort to diversify Connecticut's energy supply while helping reduce costs for consumers. It is expected to save Connecticut ratepayers millions of dollars in public benefits charges over the term of the contract.
I will continue supporting practical, cost-effective energy solutions that provide relief today while strengthening our energy supply for the future. Connecticut residents and businesses deserve reliable electricity at a price they can afford.
Affordability has been a major topic across the country and here in Connecticut. How do you plan to address this issue?
Affordability shapes quality of life, economic opportunity, and Connecticut's future. Meeting this challenge takes more than acknowledging the problem; it requires a clear plan and a commitment to delivering results. My approach is to pursue practical, fiscally responsible solutions that ease financial pressures on residents and strengthen our communities.
I will continue to advance policies that address the many factors contributing to Connecticut's high cost of living. This includes expanding the supply of affordable housing, removing unnecessary barriers to responsible development, preserving existing affordable housing, and making homeownership more attainable for first-time buyers. It also means tackling high electricity costs by examining the factors driving monthly bills, strengthening consumer protections, promoting energy efficiency, and seeking meaningful relief for households and businesses.
Easing the property tax burden requires sustainable state support for municipalities so our communities have the resources to provide essential services without placing an excessive burden on local taxpayers. Equally important are initiatives that expand access to affordable child care and address rising health care costs, helping families manage everyday expenses and maintain their quality of life.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I have demonstrated that I can deliver results for the 27th Senate District by turning priorities into action and bringing resources back to our communities. In Hartford, I have been a strong advocate for our residents, securing millions of dollars in state funding for municipal aid, education, new school construction, and critical capital projects that strengthen our communities and support our future.
My legislative record reflects my commitment to addressing real challenges and finding practical solutions. I helped establish a framework to strengthen early literacy, secured funding for Connecticut's first-in-the-nation Baby Bonds program to expand opportunities for children, advanced training for hair care professionals serving clients with textured hair, strengthened consumer protections, and championed pay equity by promoting greater transparency.
These accomplishments demonstrate my ability to navigate the legislative process, build bipartisan support, and turn ideas into meaningful results. I understand how state government works, but more importantly, I understand that the work must remain focused on the people we serve. By listening to my constituents, understanding their concerns, and working collaboratively to address them, I have delivered results that make a difference in people's lives. That experience, combined with a proven commitment to public service, is what I bring to this job.
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
If re-elected, I will continue building on the progress we have made while addressing other pressing issues facing our state, including strengthening our education system, supporting student achievement, addressing immigration concerns that affect our communities, and ensuring seniors have access to the services, support, and quality of life they deserve. I will remain focused on advocating for our residents and ensuring Connecticut continues to offer opportunity, stability, and a strong quality of life for residents of all ages and future generations.
I am proud to serve the 27th Senate District, and I remain committed to earning the trust of my constituents through hard work, accountability, and results.
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