CT Patch Candidate Profile: Kathy Kennedy For State Representative In 119th District

MILFORD, 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.

Kathy Kennedy is seeking reelection for state representative in the 119th District.

Candidate's Name:

Kathy Kennedy

What office are you seeking?

State Representative

Age:

69

District:

119th

Party:

Republican

Campaign website:

https://kennedyforthe119th.com

Occupation:

Retired

Family:

I have two children, a daughter and a son.

Does anyone in your family work in government?

No

Previous public office:

I am completing my fourth term serving the 119th as state rep.

Why are you seeking this office?

State Representative

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

What I hear from residents as I knock doors is affordability. Whether it is taxes, utility costs, healthcare, prescriptions, groceries and childcare costs these costs are impacting families, seniors and veterans. We have to address utility costs, specifically removing the public benefits charges. I will continue to fight to reduce taxes. I will focus on growing our economy and reducing wasteful spending. I will do this by continuing to work across party lines to have thoughtful conversations for all of our residents.

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

Our supply costs are the biggest driver of rate increases, and demand has outpaced supply along with colder weather in recent years. In addition the legislature has adopted a number of policies that have added additional costs. To address high costs associated with the public benefits portion of our electric bill I will continue to work with my colleagues to review each line item and determine which items should be funded and which items should be discontinued or funded through the state budget. We need to establish safeguards to prevent expensive costs associated with power purchase agreements.

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

We need to work in a bipartisan manner to cut the income tax. We need to remove taxes on social security benefits, reduce the sales tax. Create a bipartisan ways and means subcommittee, from existing committee resources to review and make recommendations. This is something that has been discussed in the legislature.

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

I have fought for and continue to fight for small business providing our small business with the necessary tax credits to have their businesses thrive. I have fought to lower prescription drug costs, sponsored legislation to protect minors from harmful social media content supporting parental controls. I have sponsored legislation to strengthen law enforcement to keep our communities safe from street takeovers. I will continue to be a strong voice and advocate for women’s health issues, domestic violence. Finally, I will fight to change

the animal cruelty laws so that our vulnerable furry friends will have a voice.

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

I am proud to have been endorsed by the Independent Party. love people. I will always fight to support those in need, to provide guidance when needed and most of all lead with common sense, compassion and empathy. I will listen because, I care.