Nicole Alarcon

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Mar 3, 2025, 4:23 PM

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Updated

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Jen Tooker, first Selectwoman of Westport, announced on Monday she will be running for governor of Connecticut.

“I’m running for governor to restore fiscal discipline, create an economy where businesses and workers thrive, and make Connecticut a place where families can afford to stay, work, and retire," said Tooker.

Tooker says she will plan for a "stronger" Connecticut, with a focus on lower taxes, lower energy costs, tech hubs and better retirement for residents.

Tooker released her key priorities in a statement to News 12:

• Rein in state employee costs: Connecticut taxpayers have been burdened with a 33% increase in state employee wages over the past five years, far exceeding private-sector wage growth. Tooker will fight for fiscally responsible labor agreements, which align public sector compensation with economic realities—ensuring sustainable and predictable costs for residents and businesses.

• Lower energy costs: Connecticut’s skyrocketing energy prices are driving up costs for households and businesses. Tooker will implement a strategy that aligns with Republican legislators, which includes removing Public Benefits Charges from electric bills, increasing transparency on policy decisions that have an effect on cost and diversifying energy sources.

• Make Connecticut a better place to retire: Connecticut ranks among the least tax-friendly states for retirees, forcing too many seniors to leave. Tooker will lower taxes and expand aging-in-place programs to ensure seniors can remain in their community.

• Transform Connecticut’s cities into thriving tech hubs: Tooker will launch a statewide innovation initiative to position Connecticut as a leader in AI, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing. By attracting tech startups, fostering university partnerships, and expanding broadband infrastructure, she will create high-paying jobs and drive economic revitalization in cities like Hartford, New Haven and Bridgeport.