Candidate Profile: Phil Young For Stratford House District 120

CONNECTICUT — The 2020 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 presidential election, but every state representative and senate seat is up for grabs. All five of Connecticut's congressional seats 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 with a 91 to 60 lead over Republicans in the House and a 22 to 14 lead in the Senate.

Connecticut Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Philip L. Young, a Stratford resident, is running for House of Representatives District 120.

Age: 57

Party affiliation: Democratic Party

Family: Wife, Jennifer Reiley Young

Occupation: Legislator/chef ... three/30

Previous elected experience: Former majority leader, Stratford Town Council, Sixth District.

Family members in government: No

Campaign website: philyoungforstaterep.com

The single most pressing issue facing our state is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The coronovirus pandemic. I will support a scientific and cautious approach to treating the pandemic. At the same time we need to invest in our citizens and businesses who are suffering immediately.

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

I have led with a steady hand with state leadership and will continue to do so, in a time of uncertainty. You know what you will get with me, honesty, integrity, and a vision for the future of our town and state.

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

I am an assistant majority leader in the Legislature. In that position, I am able to get important things done for the residents of Stratford and Connecticut. The long-promised Exit 33 on Interstate 95 is finally happening. Main Street is repaved three years ahead of schedule, the country’s strongest paid family leave act and $15 per hour legislation are all things I’ve done, and am proud of.

Do you believe Connecticut needs reform when it comes to electric utility oversight? What steps, if any should be taken?

I just helped to pass legislation last week to hold utilities accountable. Changing to a performance-based rate structure is important structural reform that will help the ratepayers of Connecticut.

What steps should state government take to bolster economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic for local businesses?

Many things need to be done to help businesses and citizens of Connecticut, but the one thing most important is to follow common sense — social distancing, washing hands and wearing a mask are the easiest way to help keeping the pandemic in check.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

“The Cure Act,” advocating for renewable energy, updating recycling policy and the bottle bill. Ensuring quality healthcare for Connecticut’s citizens.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I say what I’m going to do and I do it. I’m proud of my record, I run a clean campaign and don’t tell mistruths about my opponent’s record.

This article originally appeared on the Stratford Patch