Wesleyan grad, mom running in 32nd

PORTLAND — “Frustrated” with the direction in which the state is headed, resident Laurel Steinhauser has announced she is a candidate for the Democratic nomination for the 32nd District seat in the state House of Representatives.

The mother of three is looking to take on three-term incumbent Cromwell Republican Christie Carpino in November.

The district encompasses Cromwell and Portland.

“I will work to expand opportunities for our kids, improve public education, and give families the support they deserve by passing smart, creative legislation that prioritizes the needs of Cromwell and Portland,” Steinhauser said in a statement announcing her candidacy.

The support she has already received “shows that people are ready for a change,” she said.

“I’m excited to share my vision, values, and ideas to help create a better quality of life for the hardworking people of our two communities,” she said.

Steinhauser said her focus will be on three main issues: job creation, economic development and assistance for small businesses.

“The small businesses in our communities are getting pushed out while powerful lobbyists write the laws on behalf of the biggest corporations,” Steinhauser said.

“Connecticut is a hub for innovation and talent. Instead of using taxpayer dollars to bail out hedge funds, we

should invest in infrastructure, technology and renewable energy projects that will benefit everyone in Connecticut,” she said.

She pledged to “work tirelessly to level the playing field and advocate for our small businesses at the capitol,” she said.

Steinhauser graduated from Wesleyan University in 2005. She and her husband Chris have three young children.

Since she graduated, Steinhauser said she has dedicated herself to improving the lives of children and families.

Stienhauser said she has run “after-school classes in low-income communities, directed arts programming for children with speech and behavioral disorders, operated a small business as a perinatal massage therapist and birth doula, and been a mentor and counselor to pregnant women and mothers.”

Portland First Selectwoman Susan S. Bransfield lauded Steinhauser’s decision to run for the district seat.

“Laurel is a talented community leader, with an abundance of energy, patience and intelligence. She has a particularly strong understanding of our community’s needs.”

“Laurel is passionate about the core issues that matter most to residents of Cromwell and Portland: education equality and creating opportunities for families to thrive,” said Scott Lamberson, chairman of the Cromwell Democratic Town Committee.

The official kick-off of Steinhauser’s campaign will take place at Farrell’s restaurant, 245 Marlborough St., May 8 from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Steinhauser