CT Patch Candidate Profile: William Heughins For State Representative In 43rd District

STONINGTON, 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.

William Heughins, a Democrat, is running for state representative in the 43rd District, which covers Ledyard, Stonington and North Stonington. The district is currently represented by Republican Greg Howard, who is running for reelection.

Candidate's Name:

William Heughins

What office are you seeking?

State representative

Age:

55

District:

43rd

Party:

Democratic

Campaign website:

https://billforct.com

Occupation:

Teacher

Family:

Wife and three daughters

Does anyone in your family work in government?

No

Previous public office:

None

Why are you seeking this office?

This office comes with an incredible amount of responsibility. The leadership at the federal level is demonstrating and instituting policies and practices that go directly against basic human rights. I want to provide a new and loud voice for this district that believes that helping the 90% and marginalized communities is the reason government exists. I will fight to put that mentality into practice

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

Quality of life for Connecticut residents is the primary concern. I would take on the energy companies which are squeezing pocketbooks and forcing too many to make decisions whether medicine or food are more important.

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

As a representative I would pursue and co-sponsor legislation that supports renewable energy projects that the federal government has cancelled or cut. I would also call for investigation into the souring energy prices.

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

By pursuing and helping to subsidize alternative forms of energy and holding the energy companies to account.

I also want to look into the state education funding formula and to make necessary changes to increase the state’s commitment to raising education standards while simultaneously alleviating some of that tax burden.

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

I have been a teacher for almost 30 years and have served on committees, been a class advisor and run clubs like debate club and Model UN. These require leadership, working and listening to others, and organization, all features necessary for state representation.

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

I stand behind and support marginalized communities that suffer from legal as well as social antagonism and will fight against any federal agency or social normalcy of bigotry toward communities that have historically suffered. I believe this as a core of my belief system.