Tag: State Senator

Heather Somers Receives Endorsement of Police Officers Association of Connecticut

Posted on by Heather Somers

GROTON — State Senator Heather Somers of Groton received the endorsement Friday of the Police Officers Association of Connecticut (POACT), which represents “municipal police unions across the state of Connecticut” including more than 3,000 sworn police officers.

“In these challenging times we need leaders who support common sense reforms that strengthen, rather than vilify, our police,” Somers said. “As an independent leader committed to keeping our communities safe, I’m proud to stand with local law enforcement to tackle challenges we face and ensure justice for all.”

“That’s why I led the charge to successfully help first responders with PTSD get access to the care and treatment they deserve,” Somers continued. “It’s why I ensured local police were included in the state’s opioid addiction task force and worked with local hospitals to provide life-saving overdose reversal medication to police departments at no cost.”

“Unlike my opponent, I oppose dangerous legislation, forced through by insiders in Hartford without input from the public, that would dramatically increase legal costs for towns and cities, leading to only two potential outcomes: budget cuts to law enforcement or higher property taxes,” Somers added. “If given the honor of continuing to serve the hardworking people of the 18th district, I will continue leading with an independent voice to bring people together, including our local law enforcement, to tackle the challenges we face.”

“I’m honored to have growing support from the men and women in blue who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe,” Somers said. “They deserve our respect.”

In a letter informing Somers of the endorsement, John J. Healey, President of the Waterbury Police Union and Advisory Board Member for POACT, wrote “Our endorsement is based upon your support and advocacy on the public safety issues that affect the citizens of Connecticut, and on your commitment to the fair working conditions of the men and women in blue who put their lives on the line each day to protect and serve our communities.”

Somers has also been endorsed for reelection to the State Senate by the New London Police Union AFSCME Local 724.

“On behalf of the 68 men and women rank and file officers of the New London Police Union – AFSCME Local 724 we are pleased to formally announce our Executive Board has unanimously voted to endorse you for re-election to the State Senate citing your reliable and unwavering support for police officers both in your district and throughout the state,” union President Todd Lynch said in a letter. “In these troubling times for police throughout the country and especially here in Connecticut you have been a good friend on issues important to us and all public safety professionals. Many of our members reside in your district and are honored to stand with you endorsing you for another term as Senator for the 18th district.”

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Connecticut Marine Trades Association Recognizes Heather Somers with “Honorary Crew Member Award”

Posted on by Heather Somers

GROTON — State Senator Heather Somers of Groton was recognized by the Connecticut Marine Trades Association this week with the organization’s “Honorary Crew Member Award” for her leadership in support of the state’s coastal businesses, workers and economy.

“Connecticut’s marine trades industry is vital to the prosperity of our coastal communities and the economic wellbeing of our state,” Somers said. “I am proud to champion policies to support this critical industry, including leading the fight to successfully eliminate the tax on boats, which helped make Connecticut small businesses more competitive and increase boat sales.”

See the full announcement from the Connecticut Marine Trades Association here:

State Senator Heather Somers Endorsed by Connecticut League of Conservation Voters

Posted on by Heather Somers

GROTON — State Senator Heather Somers of Groton announced her campaign received the endorsement of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) Thursday.

“Growing up, my father taught me to always value and protect the incredible coastline, landscapes and environmental assets we are blessed to have in eastern Connecticut,” Somers said. “That’s why I’ve made safeguarding our environment, critical habitats and state parks a top priority as a state senator.”

“I’m proud of my work to improve waste collection and efficiency, keep plastic out of our waterways, strengthen our coastline and protect our state parks,” Somers added. “If reelected, I look forward to continuing to lead with an independent voice to protect our environment and natural assets.”

In a letter informing Somers of the endorsement, Lori Brown, executive director of the CTLCV said: “We are proud to support candidates like you who are committed to protecting Connecticut’s environment and will make it a high priority at the state legislature … Thank you for your leadership and enthusiasm in tackling important environmental issues. We look forward to your successful election on November 3rd.”

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