New Haven Register (New Haven, CT)
Shelton’s McGorty seeking reelection to state House
SHELTON — As state Rep. Ben McGorty pushes for a sixth consecutive term in the General Assembly, his focus remains on public safety and making the state more affordable for residents and businesses.
McGorty, the assistant House Republican leader, this week announced he's seeking reelection in the 122nd House District representing sections of Shelton, Stratford and Trumbull. McGorty ran unopposed in the 2022 election.
“Connecticut is in an affordability crisis affecting residents and business owners, and it needs bold ideas to take the necessary steps to correct it,” McGorty said.
“We have struggling critical infrastructure and constant pressure on municipalities to regionalize zoning and education,” McGorty added. “It will take experience and clear decision-making to put our state on the best path forward.”
McGorty said that during his time as a legislator he has prided himself on his advocacy for fire service professionals and all public safety and emergency personnel.
As co-chair of the bipartisan Fire and EMS Caucus, McGorty helped lead the long-awaited passage in 2023 of a Firefighters Cancer Benefits Bill. The legislation protects fire service professionals and supports their families in the case of a cancer diagnosis due to occupational hazards. McGorty has also been vocal about improving the utility landscape in Connecticut, prioritizing policies that make energy more affordable, more reliable and more sustainable.
“The cost of utilities and reliability of our energy grid are a constant concern for residents who already struggle to navigate inflation across the board,” McGorty said. “I am proud to join my Republican colleagues in Hartford in constant calls for comprehensive proposals that will achieve long-term sustainability, short-term financial relief and a stronger grid.”
In addition to serving as assistant House Republican leader, McGorty is a member of the legislature's Commerce, Public Safety & Security, Regulations Review and Internship committees.
McGorty is a lieutenant and deputy fire marshal for the town of Stratford. He has served more than 44 years in the fire service, including as firefighter with the Huntington Fire Department for the past 30 years.
He has also served as a fire commissioner for Shelton for the past 14 years.
McGorty is a realtor with Coldwell Banker and parishioner of St. Lawrence Church with his wife, former Shelton Alderman Noreen McGorty. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus and is active in local and statewide fire prevention efforts.
“Through my engagement with community members and in several leadership positions at home and in Hartford, I have cultivated strong relationships that fuel me to make informed decisions that benefit residents of the 122nd District,” McGorty said.