Republican state Representative Dan Carter is seeking a second term in the House representing portions of Bethel, Danbury, Redding and Newtown. He served with the Air Force as a pilot in Bosnia and in operation Desert Storm. He is now a health care consultant. Democrat Steve DeMoura, an attorney with Pinney Payne and Bethel Board of Assessment Appeals member is seeking to unseat him.
DeMoura says continuing education reform will be one of his priorities if elected. Both of his parents were educators and his wife is a teacher. He says education is the greatest gift we give out society and to youths. He is a supporter of the vocational technical schools.
Carter touts new Hospice Regulations as one of the pieces of legislation he is proud was passed during his first term. He says the bill calls for making it easier to build and operate modern hospice residences in underserved areas of Connecticut. The new regulations set reasonable standards for creating smaller hospice facilities in more communities.
Carter says he wants to be elected to another term so that he can continue to put people back to work. He notes that per capita income is down about $4,000 a year for families. As for how to make things easier for the middle class, Carter wants to cut spending and hold the line on taxes.
DeMoura says the state needs to be more business friendly and attrack new jobs in innovative industries. He says whether it’s through loans or tax incentives, Connecticut can create jobs.
Carter has been a vocal advocate against the Earned Credits early release program for inmates who complete certain programs and get credit for good behavior. He says the program puts criminals who have committed rape, arson and kidnapping back on the streets.
In previous interviews, DeDoura has said that his work in criminal and civil litigation has taught him that inmate rehabilitation is possible. He says criminals, through education, can become productive members of society.
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