2024 Patch Candidate Profiles: Kevin Brown, State Rep

VERNON, CT — Kevin Brown is running for the 56th District seat in the Connecticut House of Representatives.

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Candidate’s Name: Kevin Brown

What office are you seeking? State Representative

District: 56th House District

Campaign website

What city or town do you live in? Vernon

Party affiliation: Democrat

Education: B.A. Public Policy & Gov't, Eastern Connecticut State University; M.S. Secondary Education University of Bridgeport

Occupation: High School Social Studies Teacher, 19 years

Family: Wife Christina, Son Jacob 14yrs., Daughter Emilie 10 yrs..

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? n/a

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

State Representative 2023-Present; Vernon Board of Education 2017-2023

Age: 42

Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking re-election because I strongly believe in serving my community. As a high school civics teacher, I have worked hard to engage young people in their government, and I try to lead by example. I also believe that Vernon, and our state, can thrive if we provide it with the necessary resources.

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

Making Connecticut an affordable place for all is a top issue for the state. Having voted for the largest tax cut in state history in 2023, I want to look for ways to find additional tax relief, especially for our senior population. In addition, as a teacher, I believe appropriately funding our education system is another priority. I would also like to work toward relieving some of the special education excess cost burden for municipalities.

There have been an alarming number of deaths on Connecticut's roadways. Is there anything from a legislative standpoint that can be done to address that?

The increase in deaths on our roadways is cause for concern. As a legislature, we can look for ways to empower the DOT and State Police to make our roads safer through speed limit and reckless driving enforcement.

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

I am always willing to engage in conversation in search of policy solutions. I believe that by having discussions across the political aisle we can find areas for compromise. My background as an educator also allows me to see how the policies we set will impact children and families.

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

Having served two years as a state representative, I have a successful record of advancing legislation through the lawmaking process. I have introduced or co-sponsored legislation that eliminated the fiscal cliff on retiree pensions, exempted property taxes for 100% disabled veterans, streamlined teacher certification, and created the state's Civic Education, Civic Engagement, & Media Literacy Task Force, to name a few.

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

It has been my greatest honor to serve the 56th District in the General Assembly, and I will not take it for granted.