State Rep. Vincent J. Candelora is one of the top-elected Republicans in the state. He’s spearheaded the GOP’s battles in the legislature, which is fully controlled by Democrats.
Candelora has backed policies that aim to make the state more affordable for residents and businesses.
When Gov. Ned Lamont announced plans last year to cut the income tax for middle-class earners, Candelora was quick to point out the proposal mirrored a plan the GOP put forward earlier.
Candelora said he wants to see additional tax cuts in 2024. His party recently proposed a $2,000 state child tax deduction.
Candelora has been a major proponent of safeguarding fiscal guardrails that were adopted in 2017 and have helped the state maintain budget stability. He’s voiced support for a constitutional amendment that would make some of the guardrails, including volatility and revenue caps, permanent.
Candelora also led the GOP’s pushback against the Lamont administration’s efforts to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035.
Outside the legislature, Candelora, who lives in North Branford, helps run two family-owned businesses — a manufacturing company and sportsplex.