Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Norm Needleman (D) to represent the 33rd Senate District. Needleman is currently serving his fourth term as First Selectman in Essex, where he has been a thoughtful leader on environmental issues. He has taken a strong stance about the importance of combatting climate change and investing in clean energy to grow our economy.   
 
“Norm knows that investing in clean energy means creating good, high-paying jobs for Connecticut families,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “He understands that climate change is one of the most critical challenges facing our generation, and that investing in renewable energy won’t just cut emissions, it will also grow the green workforce. In Essex, Norm has shown a commitment to transparency, bipartisanship, and his community. We need more leaders like Norm at the State Capitol who will give complex issues the thought they require, leaders who will do the right thing, not the easy thing.”
 
To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, candidates must have completed the Survey on the Environment earlier this summer. All candidates running for legislative office were invited to complete the questionnaire, and CTLCV received over 100 responses. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s responses as well as additional information provided to CTLCV’s Endorsement Committee.

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Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed David Lawson (D) to represent the 30th Senate District. Lawson is the current Chair of the New Milford Board of Education, and has worked closely with local land trusts and other groups to preserve open space. His commitment to clean water and air stands in sharp contrast to his opponent, Sen. Craig Miner, actively worked to weaken environmental protections and used his position as Chair of the Environment Committee to block key bills from even being considered. Miner has an abysmal 54% Lifetime Score in CTLCV’s 2018 Environmental Scorecard, a clear indication that he does not prioritize the environment or public health.  
 
“David knows that protecting our open space and clean air and water is critical to making sure our rural communities—and whole state—thrive,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “While his opponent, Sen. Miner, has worked hard to block critical protections for our air, water, wildlife, and more, David is committed to making sure our kids and communities can enjoy our natural resources for many years to come. He knows that investing in clean energy will create new, exciting jobs—especially in the Northwest Corner—while also helping us fight climate change. We need leaders like David who won’t bow down to special interests or big polluters like his opponent.”
 
To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, candidates must have completed the Survey on the Environment earlier this summer. All candidates running for legislative office were invited to complete the questionnaire, and CTLCV received over 100 responses. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s responses as well as additional information provided to CTLCV’s Endorsement Committee.

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Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Tony Hwang (R) to represent the 28th Senate District. Hwang has been a champion for clean water throughout his time in the legislature, and a strong ally for open space and land conservation. Even during fraught budget negotiations and difficult committee battles, Hwang has made the environment a priority. He most recently scored a 91% in CTLCV’s 2018 Environmental Scorecard.
 
“Sen. Hwang has been a true ally and champion for the environment,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “He understands that clean water and clean air are too important to risk over partisan squabbles, and that preserving open space is not just good for our environment, but key to attracting more families and businesses to our state. Sen. Hwang knows the threat climate change poses, and he’s worked hard to pass some of the most ambitious carbon emissions goals in the nation. We need more leaders like him at the State Capitol, who put public health and the environment over partisanship or special interests.”
 
To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, candidates must have completed the Survey on the Environment earlier this summer. All candidates running for legislative office were invited to complete the questionnaire, and CTLCV received over 100 responses. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s responses as well as additional information provided to CTLCV’s Endorsement Committee.
 
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Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Vickie Nardello (D) to represent the 16th Senate District. Nardello previously represented the 89th House District until 2013, where she maintained a 97% Lifetime Score in CTLCV’s Environmental Scorecard. A strong advocate for clean energy, Nardello helped create the Connecticut Green Bank, our nation’s first bank dedicated to investing in clean energy projects. Her interest in growing Connecticut’s clean energy stands in sharp contrast to her opponent, Sen. Rob Sampson, who received an abysmal 31% in CTLCV’s 2018 Environmental Scorecard.
 
“Climate change is the issue of our generation, and Vickie knows clean energy is how we cut emissions, turn back the clock, and create new, green jobs,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “In the House, Vickie was a champion for clean energy. Her work establishing the Connecticut Green Bank made it possible for more businesses and residents in our state to invest in rooftop solar and other green solutions. She knows that when we grow the amount of clean energy Connecticut relies on, we’re not just cutting carbon emissions, we’re creating jobs in a growing, innovative field. Vickie is the leader we need to move Connecticut towards 100% clean energy.”
 
To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, candidates must have completed the Survey on the Environment earlier this summer. All candidates running for legislative office were invited to complete the questionnaire, and CTLCV received over 100 responses. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s responses as well as additional information provided to CTLCV’s Endorsement Committee.

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Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Mary Daugherty Abrams (D) to represent the 13th Senate District. Abrams is a former school teacher and administrator, and passionate about protecting our environment and leaving the world a better place for her grandchildren and future generations. In contrast to her opponent Len Suzio—who was one of the lowest scoring lawmakers in CTLCV’s 2018 Environmental Scorecard—Abrams expressed strong concerns about exposing our kids to toxic tire mulch on playgrounds and carcinogenic flame retardants in their clothing.
 
“We can’t gamble with our children’s health, and Mary understands that deeply,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “While her opponent, Sen. Suzio, worked actively to block bills that would have protected our kids from toxic chemicals, Mary wants to make sure all our children can grow and play without the risk these substances pose. She is smart, thoughtful, and will be a true fighter for common sense and public health in the General Assembly.”
 
To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, candidates must have completed the Survey on the Environment earlier this summer. All candidates running for legislative office were invited to complete the questionnaire, and CTLCV received over 100 responses. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s responses as well as additional information provided to CTLCV’s Endorsement Committee.

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Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Christine Cohen (D) to represent the 12th Senate District. Cohen is the owner of Cohen Bagels in Madison and a longtime member of the Guilford Land Trust. She has expressed real concern about carbon emissions and pollution in Connecticut, and has already taken steps to ensure her own business operates in a sustainable, environmentally responsible manner.
 
“Christine is smart, driven, and committed to the environment,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “It’s easy to talk about green policies, but much harder to run a business—or a state—sustainably. Christine saw that firsthand when she transitioned Cohen Bagels from plastic straws to paper. She understands that doing the right thing isn’t the same as doing what’s easy, and she knows the challenges our small businesses face to be environmentally conscious. We expect Christine will be a true leader in the legislature and will work hard to expand access to clean energy and green initiatives to more Connecticut businesses and residents.”
 
To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, candidates must have completed the Survey on the Environment earlier this summer. All candidates running for legislative office were invited to complete the questionnaire, and CTLCV received over 100 responses. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s responses as well as additional information provided to CTLCV’s Endorsement Committee.

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Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Matt Lesser (D) to represent the 9th Senate District. Lesser previously represented the 100th House District, where he worked tirelessly to address his constituents’ concerns on the environment. His leadership led to the passage of crucial protections for snapping turtles in this last legislative session. Lesser also led the charge to support bans on fracking waste, and has been a strong proponent of the State Water Plan.
 
“Matt has always held the door open to his constituents—especially when it comes to the environment—and he never backs down from a fight,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “When activists in Middletown spoke up about the poaching of snapping turtles, Matt leapt into action. It took time and persistence, but Matt worked across the aisle to make these protections a reality. In a time of sharp partisan divides, we need leaders like Matt Lesser who can bring people together to protect our environment.”
 
To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, candidates must have completed the Survey on the Environment earlier this summer. All candidates running for legislative office were invited to complete the questionnaire, and CTLCV received over 100 responses. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s responses as well as additional information provided to CTLCV’s Endorsement Committee.

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Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Senator Beth Bye (D) to represent the 5th Senate District. Bye is in her fourth term serving the people of the 5th Senate District. She has been a longtime environmental champion and a notable advocate for water issues, where she most recently led the charge against water diversion. She has a lifetime score of 91% according to CTLCV’s 2018 Environmental Scorecard, a testament to her firm commitment to environmental stewardship.
 
“Sen. Bye has been one of our true environmental champions,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “When it comes to water, she’s been adamant that water is a public trust, and fought hard against companies that would have diverted water from Connecticut towns just to make a quick buck out of state. With the State Water Plan returning to the legislature in 2019, we need leaders like Sen. Bye who will put people’s basic needs ahead of special interests.”
 
To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, candidates must have completed the Survey on the Environment earlier this summer. All candidates running for legislative office were invited to complete the questionnaire, and CTLCV received over 100 responses. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s responses as well as additional information provided to CTLCV’s Endorsement Committee.

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Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) released its initial endorsements for the Connecticut General Assembly. All candidates for legislative office were invited to complete CTLCV’s Survey on the Environment earlier this summer. Over 100 candidates responded, and CTLCV’s Endorsement Committee has reviewed their answers and begun interviewing those who identified the environment as one of their top priorities. Today’s endorsements represent the first of several rounds.
 
Candidates receiving CTLCV’s endorsements are:

“Connecticut deserves lawmakers who will fight for renewable energy, clean air and water, and open space,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “All of the candidates we endorsed today have either established themselves as true leaders in the legislators or made real commitments to be champions for the environment if elected.
 
ABOUT THE CANDIDATES
 
Beth Bye is in her fourth term serving the people of the 5th Senate District. She has been a longtime environmental champion and a notable advocate for water issues, where she most recently led the charge against water diversion. She has a lifetime score of 91% according to our 2018 Environmental Scorecard, a testament to her firm commitment to environmental stewardship.
 
Matt Lesser represented the 100th House District before running for Sen. Paul Doyle’s open seat in the 9th Senate District. During his time in the House, Lesser worked tirelessly to address his constituents’ concerns about snapping turtles, and his leadership led to crucial protections being passed in 2018. Lesser also led the charge to support bans on fracking waste, and has been a strong proponent of the State Water Plan.
 
Christine Cohen, running for the 12th Senate District, is the owner of Cohen Bagels in Madison and a longtime member of the Guilford Land Trust. She expressed real concern about carbon emissions and pollution in Connecticut, and has already taken steps to ensure her own business operates in a sustainable, environmentally responsible manner.
 
Mary Daugherty Abrams, candidate for the 13th Senate District, is running against one of the most vocal anti-environment legislators in the General Assembly: Len Suzio. In contrast to Suzio, Abrams voiced strong concerns for the health of our children. Speaking as a grandmother and former teacher, Abrams indicated her support for bans to toxic tire mulch in playgrounds and carcinogenic flame retardant chemicals in children’s clothing—two initiatives Suzio actively worked to oppose.
 
Vickie Nardello previously represented the 89th Assembly District from 1995 – 2013. During her time in the legislature, she had a 97% Lifetime Score in CTLCV’s Environmental Scorecard, which tracks lawmakers’ votes on the environment. A strong advocate for clean energy, Nardello helped create the Connecticut Green Bank, the nation’s first bank dedicated to investing in renewable energy projects. She expressed a keen interest in aggressively growing Connecticut’s investments in clean energy. She is challenging incumbent Sen. Rob Sampson, who received a score of 31% in CTLCV’s 2018 Environmental Scorecard.
 
Tony Hwang is the incumbent Senator representing the 28th District. He has been a champion for clean water throughout his time in the legislature, and a strong ally for open space and land conservation. Even during fraught budget negotiations and difficult committee battles, Hwang has made the environment a priority.
 
David Lawson is once again running for the 30th Senate District seat currently held by Sen. Craig Miner. As chair of the Environment Committee, Miner actively worked to weaken environmental protections and block key bills from being considered. In contrast, Lawson has worked with local land trusts to preserve open space. As Chair of the New Milford Board of Education, he is also working to add solar panels to schools already undergoing roof repairs. He is firmly committed to protecting our clean water, clean air, and open space.
 
Norm Needleman is currently serving his fourth term as First Selectman in Essex, where he has been a thoughtful leader on environmental issues. He is running for the 33rd Senate District, and has taken a strong stance about the importance of combatting climate change and investing in clean energy to grow our economy.
 
Alexandra Bergstein is running for the 36th Senate District. Though she would be a first-term Senator, she has a long history in the legislature, working behind the scenes on critical protections to ban toxic tire mulch from playgrounds and carcinogenic flame retardants from children’s clothing. Those measures will likely be considered again in the next legislative session, making it crucial to elect lawmakers who put the health and safety of our children first.
 
Mike Demicco represents the 21st House District. As Co-Chair of the Environment Committee, Demicco has been a strong ally for clean energy, conservation, and key protections, and helped pass bans on harmful pesticides. He listens to the concerns of the environmental community and has always strived to advance our priorities within the Committee.
 
Mary Mushinsky was first elected to the Connecticut General Assembly in 1980, where she has been a tireless leader on land preservation and expanding our public parks and trails. As the representative in the 85th House District, Mushinsky holds a Lifetime Score of 97% in CTLCV’s Environmental Scorecard. She has also been active with the Wallingford Energy Conservation Commission and currently serves as Deputy Assistant Speaker of the House.
 
James Albis has been a key leader for climate change preparedness while representing the 99th House District. Recognizing the threat of rising sea levels, Albis helped shepherd key bills through the legislature in 2018. He has been a reliable champion in committee rooms and behind-the-scenes, rallying other lawmakers to the side of the environment when it matters most.
 
Jonathan Steinberg was first elected to represent the 136th House District in 2010, and he swiftly established himself as a true environmental champion. Steinberg helped pass ambitious goals to reduce Connecticut’s carbon emissions in the last legislative session.
 
Terrie Wood represents the 141st House District, where she has been a strong proponent of land preservation and conservation. She also strongly supports water as a public trust, and has been a vocal advocate to restrict single-use plastic bags and promote more sustainable alternatives.
 
Gail Lavielle is currently serving her fourth term representing the 143rd House District. She strongly supports promoting electric vehicles in Connecticut, which would expand consumers’ choices and help reduce vehicle emissions. Lavielle has been a thoughtful leader within her party and across the aisle, helping to build consensus on the importance of protecting our open space and clean water and air.
 
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This information is paid for by the CTLCV Political Action Committee. This message was made independent of any candidate or political party. Contributions to the CTLCV PAC of $5,000 or more were made by CTLCV, Inc. and David Bingham. Additional information about the CTLCV PAC may be found on the State Elections Enforcement Commission's website (ct.gov/seec).

Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters announced that over one hundred candidates for legislative or statewide office had signed onto the Clean Energy for All pledge, which calls on candidates to commit to moving Connecticut to 100% clean energy by 2050 or sooner.
 
“Climate change is the issue of our time, and clean energy is a key part of our fight,” said CTLCV Executive Director Lori Brown. “We need lawmakers committed to investing in clean energy, both to cut emissions and grow our economy.”
 
Candidates who have taken the pledge include ardent supporter of renewable energy, Rep. Jonathan Steinberg (D-136). In the last legislative session, he shepherded two major energy bills through the General Assembly that double Connecticut’s investment in clean energy and cut our emissions in half. He also championed community shared solar, allowing homeowners and small businesses that can't easily install solar on their roofs to still cut emissions and fight climate change. His opponent, Greg Kraut, didn't respond to CTLCV's survey on the environment or Clean Energy for All pledge.
 
CTLCV worked in partnership with the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) and the Conservation Voter Movement across 30 states to make clean energy a priority for those running for office this year.
 
“This in an unprecedented level of commitment to clean energy,” said Sara Jordan, LCV’s
Clean Energy for All campaign manager. “In the absence of leadership from Washington to address climate change, state and local leaders are listening to the majority of people who want action on climate change. The candidates who are making this commitment e are showing they are ready to step up.”
 
Clean energy supports over 38,000 jobs in Connecticut. Increasing our investment in solar, offshore wind, and other renewables would create even more jobs in these cutting edge fields while also helping our state and country combat climate change.
 
The Clean Energy for All pledge reads as follows:
 
Connecticut is feeling the effects of climate change including record droughts, flooding, and increasingly intense hurricanes. Meanwhile, the clean energy market has grown rapidly.  Solar now employs more people in electricity generation than oil, coal and gas combined. As of January 2018, 56 cities across the country have committed to transitioning to 100% clean energy by 2050. Transitioning to clean energy will avert the worst impacts of climate change while creating good jobs, boosting the economy, saving consumers money, and protecting our health. 

Do you support transitioning to 100% clean energy by 2050 or sooner?

A total of 112 candidates signed CTLCV’s Clean Energy for All pledge. They can be viewed below the cut.