Patch Candidate Profile: Anne M. Hughes, 135th State House District

EASTON, 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.

Rep. Anne M. Hughes, an Easton resident, is running for re-election in the 135th State House District.

Campaign website

Party affiliation: Democrat

Education: I am a Licensed Master of Social Worker

Occupation: Social Worker with many years in the field of human services, geriatric services, Elder Abuse Prevention

Family: I am the proud daughter of Fairfield public educators, Phil and Kay Meiman. I live with my husband Tim, in Easton, and around the corner from my godson who attends Samuel Staples Elementary School.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? No

Previous public office, appointive or elective: I'm running for my third term in the State House of Representatives

Why are you seeking this office?

Because we need fearless policymakers for such a time as this, when our state legislatures are the firewall for protecting our rights, our privacy, our fundamental values and our lifeline to democracy.

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

Climate crisis, threats to civil rights, safety from gun violence, access to healthcare... and I intend to defend and protect all of this with mobilizing public will to match the policy structural solutions like the ones we've tackled in the last 3 state budgets I helped to pass.

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

Experience, relationships with constituents and policymakers and agency leaders.

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

I am raising the bar of expectation from our constituents about good communication, engagement from all ages, and accountability as policymakers. I intend to continue raising this bar.

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

Historic legislation addressing climate change, tax cuts for pensioners and retirees, investment in children's mental health, passing Paid Family Medical Leave, child tax credit, expansion of Earned Income Tax Credit, grants to all three of our towns for Economic Assistance projects, grants from the state for increasing our land trusts, rail trails; expansion of gun violence safety laws, and the CT Reproductive Freedom Defense Act.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Be you.

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

I am so honored to represent you for such a time as this.