Press Room |
RELEASE: In Contrast to Federal Elections, Big Wins for Connecticut’s Pro-Environment Candidates11/8/2024
Hartford, CT – The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) celebrates the major victories achieved by CTLCV-endorsed candidates across Connecticut in this election cycle. Given that state-level victories have never been more important, these successful campaigns highlight the continued support for environmental protections in Connecticut.
The election of Donald Trump is deeply alarming, as his past actions and statements have consistently undermined climate progress and environmental protections. President-elect Trump has called climate change a 'hoax,' rolled back key provisions of the Clean Air Act, and removed the U.S. from the Paris Agreement, jeopardizing international commitments to curb emissions. He has vowed to 'gut' the EPA, stop offshore wind development, and rescind critical clean energy funding, despite the clear economic and environmental benefits. In light of these extreme priorities, it will be a priority for CTLCV to block efforts that would reverse clean energy progress and/or withhold federal funding to Connecticut. State-level actions are now critical for the progress of environmental and democracy protections. The health, economy, and future of Connecticut’s communities will depend on state action to combat these federal threats to a sustainable future. That path forward relies on strong state leadership, making the success of CTLCV’s endorsed candidates that much more important. Over 80% of CTLCV-endorsed candidates won their races (a total of 56), with several key victories in competitive districts and tight races. One Senate seat and five House seats were flipped from anti-environment incumbents to committed environmental advocates. The next two legislative sessions will be critical for shoring up Connecticut’s environmental protections, and this growing group of pro-environment legislators is a big win. “This election has shown that having candidates who care about the environment is important for Connecticut voters,” said Lori Brown, Executive Director of CTLCV. “Unfortunately, with Trump’s return to power, we face severe threats to both our environment and environmental justice, from rollbacks of crucial protections to continued backing of gas and oil interests. These policies will disproportionately harm our most vulnerable communities. In Connecticut, efforts to advance climate action and ensure a sustainable, just future are more urgent than ever.” Notable Pro-Environment Victories CTLCV is proud to highlight these significant wins: Paul Honig in Senate District 8 Nick Menapace in House District 37 Nick Gauthier in House District 38 Jaime Foster in House District 57 MJ Shannon in House District 117 Kaitlyn Shake in House District 120 Ken Gucker in House District 138 Additionally, CTLCV is encouraged by the passage of the Absentee Voting Referendum, a step forward in a more equitable voting process. This victory ensures that Connecticut voters have expanded opportunities to engage in democracy, especially during times of climate-related disruptions. Acknowledging Losses There were several key losses for CTLCV-endorsed candidates this year, with one of the most disappointing outcomes being the race in Senate District 36 between Nick Simmons and incumbent Ryan Fazio. Throughout the campaign, CTLCV highlighted Sen. Fazio’s harmful stance on fossil fuels and his consistent opposition to renewable energy and coastal resilience efforts. During his time in office, Fazio has repeatedly voted against critical environmental legislation. His Environmental Scorecard rating for the most recent legislative session was a dismal 25%. While Simmons fell short in his bid, the responsibility now lies with Fazio’s constituents to hold him accountable for his record and ensure their voices are heard on environmental issues. In addition to this loss, the loss of incumbent Rep. Rachel Khanna of House District 149 is disappointing. She was a strong environmental advocate, specifically working on protections for Connecticut’s air and water. Looking Ahead to 2025 Looking ahead to the upcoming legislative session, CTLCV is preparing to work with a growing group of pro-environment legislators to advance key policies that address climate change, protect public lands, expand clean energy, reduce chemicals in Connecticut’s waterways, and progress environmental justice efforts. The next legislative session will be a pivotal moment for Connecticut’s environment, and CTLCV is ready to take on this work with renewed commitment and determination. Supporting these legislative champions and holding all lawmakers accountable is now more important than ever. For the full list of successful endorsed candidates, please visit CTLCV’s website here. ### The CT League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is a nonpartisan statewide organization dedicated to protecting Connecticut’s environment. CTLCV works to pass equitable and sustainable legislation that impacts our air, land, water, wildlife, and climate and holds all state legislators accountable with an annual Environmental Scorecard. CTLCV endorses and supports pro-environment candidates for CT State House and Senate, and Statewide elected offices. Visit ctlcv.org for more information on CTLCV. Connecticut’s future hangs in the balance this November, and our environment—and health—are on the line. The leaders we elect must be up to the challenge of protecting our clean air, safeguarding our water, and ensuring our natural resources thrive for generations to come. This election is about more than just policy—it's about the legacy we leave for our communities.
Protecting our environment isn’t just a moral standard—it’s the backbone of a strong economy. A healthy ecosystem boosts local businesses, fuels tourism, and enriches the quality of life that makes Connecticut exceptional. Clean air and water aren’t luxuries; they’re essentials that attract families and companies alike. This election is our chance to back leaders ready to fight for these crucial resources. Here are four critical races that the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is closely monitoring for their potential impact on the state's environmental future: Senate District 36: Nick Simmons (D) vs. Incumbent Sen. Ryan Fazio (R) This race is pivotal. The incumbent senator’s voting record speaks volumes: with only a 25% rating on the 2024 CTLCV Environmental Scorecard, he has consistently opposed essential environmental protections. By contrast, Nick Simmons will bring a new vision to office, driven by policies that connect sustainability with economic strength. His focus includes securing Connecticut’s shoreline from costly climate impacts, aiming to build long-term stability for our coastal communities. This race is about electing leaders who recognize that a resilient economy and a protected environment are inseparable. Senate District 8: Paul Honig (D) vs. Incumbent Sen. Lisa Seminara (R) In another crucial race, Paul Honig is challenging freshman Senator Lisa Seminara, whose support for fossil fuel expansion threatens to undo Connecticut’s environmental progress. Honig combines environmental advocacy with financial expertise, emphasizing that affordable clean energy is essential for Connecticut’s future. He is committed to championing fiscal policies that drive down energy costs. By focusing on data-driven strategies, Honig aims to bolster local resiliency, including securing funding for energy efficient retrofits. With a clear vision for affordability and sustainability, Honig is poised to lead his district into a resilient future. House District 57: Jaime Foster (D), Incumbent Environmental Champion Rep. Jaime Foster is a committed environmental champion for Connecticut, dedicated to protecting our natural resources and public health. As a leader on the Energy and Technology Committee, she develops energy policies that benefit her constituents and promote sustainability. With significant funding secured for safe drinking water and local parks, her ongoing leadership is essential for advancing environmental protection. Additionally, as a farm advocate on the solar citing council, Foster seeks to balance renewable energy development with the preservation of agricultural land and community interests. In contrast, Jennifer Dzen has limited experience in environmental advocacy and has not demonstrated the same commitment to impactful policies that Foster has championed. House District 138: Ken Gucker (D) vs. Incumbent Rep. Rachel Chaleski (R) Ken Gucker is seeking to reclaim his seat as an environmental leader in the House after a 26 vote loss to Rachel Chaleski in 2022. Chaleski's troubling 43% score on the 2024 Environmental Scorecard reflects her commitment to rolling back vital protections for Connecticut’s environment. In contrast, Gucker's leadership has been instrumental in modernizing the Bottle Bill, advocating for clean energy investments, and securing crucial funding for waterway health. Additionally, he is actively engaged in local issues, ensuring that development projects are ecologically responsible. Gucker is the candidate in this race who will champion Connecticut's long term sustainability. Ballot General Question: Absentee Voting As climate change increasingly disrupts our state, it's more important than ever to ensure all citizens can safely cast their vote. The CTLCV strongly supports expanding access to absentee ballots, so every voice is heard—regardless of environmental challenges. Media Contacts Gracie Pope, Communications Manager [email protected] Lori Brown, Executive Director [email protected] Hartford, CT – The CT League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) has endorsed 68 candidates for the 2024 Connecticut General Assembly House and Senate elections. These endorsements, paired with CTLCV’s 2024 Environmental Scorecard, provide voters with a comprehensive toolkit to make informed decisions about which candidates will best protect Connecticut’s environmental future. “Over time, the legislature has become more partisan since we first started in 2000, with fewer Republicans seeking our endorsement. Most Republicans are following the “Party line” rather than educating themselves on the importance of environmental policy to the health of their constituents and the economy of Connecticut,” says CTLCV Board Co-Chair David Bingham. “It's striking that, while the highest Republican score in the legislature reached 75%, the lowest Democratic score was only close behind at 67%. In 2024, the average of all Republicans was 40% and the average of all Democrats was 97%.” Endorsements Reflect Commitment to Connecticut’s Environment Each endorsed candidate brings unique perspectives and district-specific priorities, yet all have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to advancing environmental policies. “Connecticut voters can trust that if their district race made the list, they have a candidate that will advocate for clean air, water, and long-term sustainability for the state of Connecticut,” says CTLCV Executive Director, Lori Brown. Candidates seeking CTLCV’s endorsement were asked about their top environmental priorities for 2024. Common responses included re-introducing major climate legislation, advocating for an Environmental Rights provision in the state constitution, and promoting clean energy initiatives. Endorsements were based on candidates’ survey responses, their voting record in CTLCV’s annual Environmental Scorecard, and their demonstrated leadership on key environmental issues. For a full list of endorsed candidates, visit CTLCV.org/endorsements . Please note that CTLCV does not issue endorsements in every race, but that every submitted survey is published online. 2024 Environmental Scorecard Highlights Key Legislative Votes In tandem with the endorsements, CTLCV also released its annual Environmental Scorecard, a powerful tool that rates how lawmakers voted on critical environmental legislation in the 2024 legislative session. The Scorecard is not only a measure of accountability but also a guide for voters. The Scorecard provides a detailed list of bills impacting the environment, including whether the legislation passed or failed. CTLCV tracks legislators' votes in committees, the House, and the Senate, grading them on a 0-100% scale based on their support for environmental issues. The 2024 session saw an average score of 81% on scored environmental legislation. A Trusted Resource for Connecticut Voters CTLCV is the only environmental organization in Connecticut with a Political Action Committee (PAC), and both the endorsements and scorecard reflect their role as a trusted source for voters. Whether it’s an incumbent with a strong voting record or a challenger with a bold vision for the future, CTLCV’s resources help voters choose candidates who will fight for environmental justice and sustainability. A complete list of endorsed candidates and the full 2024 Environmental Scorecard are available on the CTLCV website at CTLCV.org. ------ The CT League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is a nonpartisan statewide organization dedicated to protecting Connecticut’s environment. CTLCV works to pass equitable and sustainable legislation that impacts our air, land, water, wildlife, and climate and holds all state legislators accountable with an annual Environmental Scorecard. CTLCV endorses and supports pro-environment candidates for CT State House and Senate, and Statewide elected offices. Visit ctlcv.org for more information on CTLCV.
 Hartford, CT – The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) has endorsed Rep. Jaime Foster to represent the 57th House District of the CT General Assembly including the towns of East Windsor, Ellington, and Vernon. Voters have long relied on CTLCV's endorsements to identify candidates who will champion environmental protection. Rep. Foster has been a consistent advocate for climate initiatives and will continue to fight for her district’s environmental priorities.
“Rep. Foster has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing critical environmental legislation,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “Her commitment to solar energy and local environmental issues positions her as a vital advocate for her communities. We are confident that her continued leadership will result in a sustainable future for Connecticut.” As Vice Chair of the Energy & Technology Committee, Foster has championed comprehensive solar energy initiatives while also addressing a variety of local environmental concerns. She serves as a farm advocate on the Connecticut Siting Council, working to resolve conflicts related to solar siting and ensuring that the interests of her constituents are prioritized. Foster has successfully fought to ban the toxic chemical PFAS from contaminating the state’s waterways and private wells, secured $100 million in state funding for safe drinking water, and brought home $11 million for local parks and community projects. Her commitment to protecting open spaces and promoting clean energy solutions highlights her dedication to enhancing the quality of life for residents in the 57th House District. To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, all candidates must have completed a Survey on the Environment. Endorsements are issued based on candidates’ responses and demonstrated leadership on specific issues.  Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Geraldo Reyes to represent the 75th House District of the CT General Assembly including the town of Waterbury. Voters have long relied on CTLCV's endorsements to identify candidates who will champion environmental protection. In the previous legislative session, Rep. Geraldo Reyes earned a perfect 100% rating on CTLCV’s Environmental Scorecard.
“Reyes has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication as a champion for the environment,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “His influential role as a leader of the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, combined with his impactful efforts in rallying support for climate legislation as a health and equity issue, underscores his unwavering commitment to advancing environmental causes.” He has received CTLCV’s highest accolades and been featured as a champion multiple times in the League’s annual Environmental Scorecard that tracks key votes at the state legislature. Beyond his legislative achievements, Reyes’s deep-rooted connections and leadership within his community further amplify his effectiveness as an advocate for a sustainable future. His continued advocacy and ability to unite voices for critical environmental issues make him an invaluable leader in our fight for a healthier planet. Representative Reyes’ endorsement was issued based on his consistent pro-environment voting record in CTLCV’s Scorecard and demonstrated leadership on many priority issues.  Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Martha Marx to represent the 20th Senate District of the CT General Assembly including the towns of Bozrah, East Lyme, Montville, New London, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Salem, and Waterford. Voters have long relied on CTLCV's endorsements to identify candidates who will champion environmental protection. In the previous legislative session, Sen. Martha Marx earned a perfect 100% rating on CTLCV’s Environmental Scorecard.
“Sen. Marx has been a vocal leader in the fight to prioritize environmental issues statewide, especially as a representative of a shoreline community,” said CTLCV Executive Director, Lori Brown. “She is a hard worker and outspoken supporter of protections to safeguard our environment in the face of increased coastal flooding and storm damage due to a changing climate. We are confident in Sen. Marx’s ability to continue leading on these critical issues.” As Vice Chair of the Public Health Committee, Sen. Marx has played a pivotal role in advancing environmental priorities that directly impact public health. She is working to establish restrictions on harmful pesticides including rodenticides and neonics, ensuring that policies protect both our ecosystems and the health of our communities. She was especially concerned about the toxic chemical “PFAS” that has been contaminating our state’s drinking water, and helped to pass a major bill this year to ban it from consumer products. To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, all candidates must have completed a Survey on the Environment. Endorsements are issued based on candidates’ responses, voting records in our Scorecard, and demonstrated leadership on specific issues.  Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Moira Rader to represent the 98th House District of the CT General Assembly including the towns of Branford and Guilford. Voters have long relied on CTLCV's endorsements to identify candidates who will champion environmental protection. In the previous legislative session, Rep. Moira Rader earned a perfect 100% rating on CTLCV’s Environmental Scorecard.
“Rep. Moira Rader stands out as a relentless advocate for climate action, driving critical environmental initiatives with unwavering commitment,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “Her leadership on the Environment Committee and within the Climate Caucus reflects her dedication to tackling the state’s most pressing environmental challenges. Looking ahead to the 2025 session, Moira's focus on enhancing food scrap diversion, developing recycling solutions, and integrating these efforts into schools demonstrates her proactive approach to creating a sustainable future for Connecticut.” To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, all candidates must have completed a Survey on the Environment. Endorsements are issued based on candidates’ responses, voting records in our Scorecard, and demonstrated leadership on specific issues.  Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Jane Garibay to represent the 60th House District of the CT General Assembly including the towns of Windsor and Windsor Locks. Voters have long relied on CTLCV's endorsements to identify candidates who will champion environmental protection. In the previous legislative session, Rep. Jane Garibay earned a perfect 100% rating on CTLCV’s Environmental Scorecard.
“Rep. Jane Garibay’s steadfast commitment to environmental issues and her focus on implementing environmentally friendly solutions for aging populations demonstrate her dedication to both protecting our environment and supporting community needs,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “Her proactive approach and unwavering advocacy for critical environmental initiatives make her a vital leader at the Connecticut General Assembly. We look forward to her continued leadership on promoting energy efficiency options for senior citizens.” To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, all candidates must have completed a Survey on the Environment. Endorsements are issued based on candidates’ responses, voting records in our Scorecard, and demonstrated leadership on specific issues.  Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Jan Hochadel to represent the 13th Senate District of the CT General Assembly including the towns of Meriden, Cheshire, Middletown, and Middlefield. Voters have long relied on CTLCV's endorsements to identify candidates who will champion environmental protection. In the recent legislative session, Sen. Jan Hochadel earned a perfect 100% rating on CTLCV’s Environmental Scorecard.
“Senator Hochadel has shown unwavering dedication to advancing environmental initiatives,” said CTLCV Executive Director, Lori Brown. “Her steadfast commitment to meaningful action on climate is exactly the kind of leadership we need to protect our environment for future generations." In just her first term, Sen. Hochadel was appointed Vice-Chair of the Environment Committee, where she champions legislation for a wide range of environmental issues. As a former science teacher, she is acutely aware of the dangers posed by toxic chemicals in our environment. Her leadership was essential in the successful effort to ban “PFAS” from consumer products that are harmful to human health and are contaminating our drinking water. She is also committed to restricting neonics pesticides (deadly to pollinators) and rodenticides (deadly to birds of prey) and promises to continue the fight for these bills if re-elected. In addition, she serves as Chair of the Aging Committee, and is a member of the Banking, Commerce, Housing, and Planning & Development committees, where she brings a strong pro-environment lens to her work on those committees. To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, all candidates must have first completed a Survey on the Environment. CTLCV points to Hochadel’s exceptionally strong responses to legislative priorities for the 2025 legislative session. Endorsements are issued based on candidates’ responses, voting records in the Scorecard, and demonstrated leadership on specific issues.  Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Steven Winter to represent the 94th House District of the CT General Assembly including the towns of Hamden and New Haven. Voters have long relied on CTLCV's endorsements to identify candidates who will champion environmental protection.
“Steven Winter has consistently demonstrated a proactive approach to environmental issues in his community, championing key initiatives like clean energy and climate resilience,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “As the former Executive Director for Climate and Sustainability for the City of New Haven, his expertise and dedication make him exceptionally well-suited to drive environmental progress at the Capitol. Winter has been actively working on a wide range of local and state policies that directly benefit Connecticut’s residents and businesses, which are spelled out in his response to CTLCV’s candidate survey. To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, all candidates must have completed a Survey on the Environment. Endorsements are issued based on candidates’ responses and demonstrated leadership on specific issues. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
February 2025
Categories |
RSS Feed