Editor’s note: The Easton Courier asked candidates running for office representing Easton to submit a bio and platform statement. Tony Hwang (R) is running for re-election for Connecticut’s 28th Senatorial District.
One of the greatest gifts in my life is my family. I live in Fairfield with my wife and best friend of 36 years, Grace, where we raised our children, Christina and Peter. They have grown into accomplished and caring young adults, and their love and support have allowed me to pursue my passion for public service and giving back to our community.
As a first-generation immigrant from an authoritarian government, living in federally subsidized housing and learning English while navigating economic and cultural challenges, I understand firsthand the obstacles many face. Despite these challenges, I am deeply proud and grateful to be an American and to serve as your state senator.
I believe that with success comes the responsibility to give back. We must lift up those who are vulnerable — struggling in cycles of poverty, neglect, or facing bias and discrimination. We must also strive for balance in social, economic, and health equity for all. That’s why I prioritize people over politics.
It has been an honor and privilege to serve as your state senator for the past 10 years. My goal has always been to make a positive difference in the lives of the people in our community. I am guided by independent thinking and work hard to understand different perspectives, focusing on facts and solutions that are fair and sustainable for all.
In this age of gaslighting, misinformation, and manipulative narratives, it is critical not to let these negative forces dominate our lives and political discourse. I am proud that my accomplishments are rooted in experience, collaboration, mutual respect, and independent thought.
If you’d like to learn more about my record and vision, I encourage you to contact me directly at 203-807-8098, email me at Tony@TonyHwang.org, or visit my website at www.TonyHwang.org.
Candidate Statement
Top three issues facing Easton and my solutions: Over the past 10 years, I have had the honor and privilege of serving as your state senator for the 28th State Senate District. My experience, achievements, and unwavering commitment to our community have been rooted in independent thinking, genuine engagement, and a desire to put people above politics.
Throughout my tenure, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to tackle complex challenges and deliver meaningful results for the people of the 28th District. Whether it was holding utility companies accountable, fighting for affordable energy, advocating for local governance over state-mandated policies, or addressing the urgent need for public safety, my legislative efforts have always focused on real solutions that improve the quality of life for our residents.
- Skyrocketing Utility Costs
Utility costs in Connecticut are among the highest in the nation, leaving residents struggling with rising electric bills. This issue is further compounded by inflation and taxes affecting daily necessities. As your state senator, I have worked to hold utility companies accountable, pushing for transparency and reforms to ensure ratepayers aren’t burdened with hidden fees. I supported legislation like Public Act 20-5, which addresses utility performance during storms, and I have consistently fought against “pass-through” charges that unfairly increase bills for consumers. Moving forward, I will push for an overhaul of the “public benefits” portion of your bill, ensuring these costs are part of the state budget, not hidden fees. We must also ensure that renewable energy purchases do not significantly inflate rates while keeping our clean energy goals intact. Balancing environmental priorities with affordability for residents is key. - Local Governance vs. State Mandates
Easton values its local control over education, watershed protection, land use, and zoning, but state mandates like 8-30g threaten that autonomy and environmental sustainability. I have always championed local governance, ensuring that decisions affecting education, watershed protection, and land use/zoning come from those who know our communities best — local boards and parents. State-mandated housing laws risk undermining our environmental and watershed protections and fail to address the unique needs of rural and suburban communities. I will continue advocating for collaborative solutions that respect local input and environmental protection while addressing housing shortages in a sustainable and thoughtful manner. - Political Gaslighting and Misinformation
The rise of gaslighting and misinformation is eroding trust in government and distorting policy discussions. It’s essential that we focus on facts and genuine solutions, rather than political narratives designed to divide us. I have always stood for independent thinking, putting people over politics. As your senator, I will continue to fight against misinformation, advocate for transparency, and lead with integrity and statesmanship. Let’s keep our political discourse honest, respectful, and focused on making real progress for our community.
