CT Patch Candidate Profile: Michael Battinelli For State Senate

STAMFORD, CT — The 2022 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 gubernatorial election, but every state representative and senate seat is up for grabs. All five of Connecticut's congressional seats, plus one U.S. Senate seat, 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

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

Michael Battinelli, a Stamford resident, is running for State Senate District 27.

Party affiliation

Republican

Education

Attended all Stamford public schools, diploma from Porter and Chester School for architectural and engineering technology.

Occupation

Firefighter

Family

Married 38 years. I have four children, ages 35,34,32, and 28

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Age

63

Previous public office, appointive or elective

No

Why are you seeking this office?

I’m tired of our state government sending outrageous mandates to our towns in a cookie cutter fashion. Overdevelopment is running rampant due to bill 8-30 g. Towns should be able to determine their own futures. I think education should be revamped so our children can have a future. We throw tons of money at it, but don’t solve the real problems. We need to give our police departments more freedom to protect our communities effectively. Among other issues

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Overdevelopment. Peoples neighborhoods are being decimated. We have to take another look at 8-30g and either adjust it or scrap it to preserve what quality of life we have

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

Our main difference seems to be in the housing issues. She seems to be promoting unlimited increase in affordable housing. I agree with the idea, but Stamford is already a leader in that area now. There are other issues to pursue also. They’re trying to close our Glenbrook community center to build more housing, when I believe a community center is more beneficial to our community

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

I just feel that sometimes incumbents lose touch with their constituents. I’m coming in fresh off the street, and still have a finger on the pulse of the neighborhoods I will be serving.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

State bureaucracy. We have to shrink the size of government to make it more streamlined and cost efficient.

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

I have initiated or chaired many organizations. From Stamford wrestling, Columbus Day parade , to the Glenbrook neighborhood association, and the Stamford neighborhoods coalition.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

If you want something, go after it. If you never try, your chances at success are zero.

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

I’m a fighter.