Tolland Council Chairwoman To Seek State Office

TOLLAND — Current Tolland Town Council chairwoman Tammy Nuccio said Wednesday that she has filed paperwork for the Republican nomination for the the 53rd district seat in the state House of Representatives.

Nuccio was first elected to the Town Council in 2017 and re-elected last November while earning more votes than any other candidate from either party.

She would take on Democratic incumbent Pat Wilson Pheanious, who defeated Republican incumbent Sam Belsito in the last state election.

In a prepared message, Nuccio said, "Eastern Connecticut needs a leader who recognizes the myriad of issues our towns face — Issues which are not being addressed by establishment politicians in Hartford."

She continued, "Our residents are facing pressure from multiple directions — crumbling foundations, reductions in education funding, and tax increases that are forcing small business owners to close or move elsewhere.

"I think it's time for Hartford to hear from someone who’s concerned with making Connecticut an affordable option and keeping our citizens in their homes. We do not need more taxes, we do not need tolls, we need people who understand a budget and know where to push to find efficiencies. We need fiscally responsible decisions that truly benefit our friends and neighbors. As leaders, we’re responsible to listen to our residents and bring their voice to the Capitol, and I pledge to do just that."

Nuccio stated that the towns of the 53rd District — parts of Tolland, Willington and Ashford — have been "left behind by policies enacted under Hartford’s gold dome."

"This isn’t about Republican or Democrat," she said. "This is about advocating for the best interests of the people of Ashford, Tolland, and Willington. It’s about fighting for policies that lessen the financial burden on our seniors and ensure that opportunities exist for our children when they enter the workforce. People shouldn’t be forced to leave Connecticut in order to make ends meet."

Nuccio plans to make a public announcement at a kickoff fundraiser slated for Willington Pizza on Feb. 23 at 6:30 p.m.