Democrats Unanimously Endorse Phelps

Portland Board of Education Chairman Christopher Phelps was unanimously nominated by Cromwell and Portland Democrats as their candidate for State Representative at the 32nd District Convention held at Cromwell Town Hall on Tuesday.

Portland First Selectwoman Susan Bransfield gave a nominating speech for Phelps highlighting his record of accomplishment as board of education chairman.

“Chris is a thoughtful, dedicated, and passionate advocate for our town,” Bransfield said. “He has done an excellent job on the board of education. His thoughtful, collaborative approach to overcoming challenges and solving problems is what will make him an outstanding State Representative.”

Phelps, who will challenge incumbent Christie Carpino (R, Cromwell) in November, pointed to rising test scores and the recognition Portland schools have recently received as accomplishments he was especially proud of.

“I am proud of our success improving student achievement in Portland while keeping tight rein on the growth of our budget,” Phelps said. “Over the last four years, we have twice implemented ‘no-increase’ budgets without layoffs or cuts in programs. At the same time, student test scores have risen steadily, Brownstone Intermediate School was named a Blue Ribbon School, and Portland High School recently achieved national ranking from U.S. News.”

Tim Connelly, Chairman of the Cromwell Board of Assessment Appeals, praised Phelp's leadership.

“Chris is a true leader. His work on the Board of Education in Portland has been nothing short of extraordinary and I know that he will continue that success as the next Representative for the 32nd District,” Connelly said. “It’s leaders like Chris who will help create a better future for our families. Chris has my sincere and full endorsement.”

Phelps emphasized his experience working as legislative advocate and director of consumer and nonprofit advocacy groups in Hartford. He worked to pass identity theft protections for consumers, the Connecticut Clean Cars Law that helped pave the way for new national fuel economy standards that will save Connecticut’s families tens of millions of dollars at the gas pump, and the 2011 energy bill to help families and businesses put money back in their pockets by reining in rising electric bills, and investing in energy efficiency and home-grown renewable energy generation.

“If the voters of Portland and Cromwell elect me as their State Representative, I will fight to see that our schools receive the funding our teachers need to educate our children, relieve the burden on property taxpayers in our towns, and invest in the local manufacturing and Main Street businesses whose success is vital to creating jobs and rebuilding the middle class in our state,” Phelps said.

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