PROSPECT — Republican Lezlye Zupkus announced this week that she will seek a second term as state representative for the 89th House District.
“Connecticut faces significant financial hurdles in the near future, a problem intensified by the legislature’s combative attitude toward the very people our state needs to help turn around the economy — the owners of small businesses,” Zupkus said in a news release. “I’d like to continue to bring greater focus to these issues, and work toward solutions that stabilize government finances and create an environment where employers can thrive and create jobs.”
The 89th District covers Prospect, Bethany and Cheshire. Zupkus is currently in her first term in office after defeating longtime Democratic incumbent Vickie Nardello in 2012.
According to the release, Zupkus has reached campaign fundraising thresholds under the state’s clean elections program, which required her to raise $5,000 and collect contributions from 150 people who live within the district’s three towns.
“The level of support and encouragement that I’ve received so far has been overwhelming,” Zupkus said. “Every day I talk to residents who are increasingly frustrated with our state’s direction, and I’m honored that so many of them view me as someone who can help turn things around.”
Zupkus hit her fundraising goals in 10 days, the release stated.
“A swift and successful fundraising campaign indicates a strong tailwind of support,” said Tom Galvin, chairman of the Prospect Republican Town Committee, in the release.
The release cited Zupkus’ stance on several issues during her first term, including voting against a state budget that exceeded the state’s constitutional spending cap, rallying against a gas tax increase and supporting legislation aimed at helping small businesses.
“People have put their faith in me, and I intend to do everything I can to continue to repeat their clear desire — they want a state government buoyed by fresh ideas from leaders who are focused on improving Connecticut’s structural budget problems and poor economic environment that prevents the job growth we desperately need,” she said in the release.
A convention will be held in May where Republican delegates from all three communities will choose the party’s nominee. The Prospect Republican Town Committee has already endorsed Zupkus as well as state Sen. Joe Markley (R-16) for re-election.
