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Heard Very Real Concerns

When I decided to run in the Feb. 26, election to become East Haven’s next state representative, I had no idea how humbling an experience it would be. I want to thank the thousands of residents who have picked up their phones, opened their doors, and welcomed me into their lives these past five weeks.

Talking with residents, I’ve heard very real concerns about the direction our state is headed, especially fears that future tax hikes will make it harder than it already is for families and seniors to make ends meet.

I’m running for state representative because, unlike politicians in Hartford, I do not believe tax hikes should be a part of future budget solutions. This year, the state has floated a new one-mill state real estate tax, a universal statewide car tax, and new taxes on groceries and medicine as ways to balance our budget. These are not solutions. Rather, they are temporary money grabs that will hurt middle-class families. Oppositely, I believe we need to cut our state’s debt in half by reducing and prioritizing our borrowing, which will reduce our debt payments and allow us to meet future budget obligations without raising taxes.

I also believe we need to have an honest discussion about raising the minimum wage and do a better job addressing quality of life issues like the opioid epidemic that continues to take lives and destroy families.

I was born and raised in East Haven and I’ve spent my life working, volunteering, and investing in our community. I understand that we need to keep East Haven an affordable place to live, work, and raise a family and, if elected, I will be a strong voice for us in Hartford.

Joseph Zullo

East Haven

Joseph Zullo is the Republican candidate for the 99th District General Assembly seat.