The West Haven Democratic Town Committee endorsed its slate of candidates May 23 for the 2018 state and local elections. As expected, State Rep. Dorinda Borer was unanimously endorsed by the delegates for re-election to 115th assembly district. At the same meeting, Judge of Probate Mark DeGennaro was also unanimously endorsed for a third term as Judge of Probate.
Delegates from West Haven overwhelmingly endorsed State Rep. Michael DiMassa last week for a second term for the 116th assembly district, which includes the Allingtown section of West Haven and a small portion of New Haven.
DiMassa was elected in 2016 following a narrow primary win. He serves on the appropriations, banks, Public safety and executive and the legislative nominations committee where he is the vice chairperson.
“I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to continue to serve the great residents of West Haven and New Haven in the House of Representatives. It’s not about what we have accomplished over the last two years, but what we have left to do to continue to improve our communities and our state, we have a challenging road ahead but we can all make a difference if we work together,” DiMassa said.
Borer was elected in a special election in 2017 to fill the vacancy left by Steve Dargan when he resigned to accept a position in state government. She serves on the appropriations, environment and the public health committee where she is the vice chairperson.
“We are at a crossroads in our state and I think we should use this as an opportunity to completely change the narrative to one that is positive, forward looking and creative. Every day that I serve in this job I’m enthusiastic and excited about the potential for our city and state and I’m grateful to have a seat at the table and be able to contribute and help shape the direction. I look forward to speaking to as many residents as possible throughout this campaign as their feedback always makes me more knowledge in my ability to champion what is important to them,” said Borer following her endorsement.
“Representatives Dorinda Borer and Michael DiMassa work hard for our city and clearly understand the issues and challenges that West Haven faces. They are responsive to their constituents and have shown that they can work across party lines to get legislation passed and attract funding and support for West Haven. I look forward to working with all our candidates over the next several months as we gear up for the election– it is important that Dorinda and Michael get re-elected so we can continue the progress made and bring additional opportunities to West Haven,” said Michael Last, Town Committee chairman.
Probate Judge Mark DeGennaro was first elected in 2010 following the retirement of longtime Probate Judge E. Michael Heffernan. DeGennaro earned his B.A from Brown University and his J.D from the University of Bridgeport. He has maintained a law practice in West Haven since 1983, including as a partner at the law firm of Donahue Votto & DeGennaro.
“The probate court system is different than most courts. We are not deciders of matters as much as we are solvers of problems. It has been a pleasure to serve the people of West Haven and surrounding towns, and I am honored by their trust in me to continue to serve them,” said DeGennaro.
“Judge DeGennaro and his staff have assisted the families of West Haven during very difficult and sensitive times with patience and professionalism. Mark is a very good Probate Judge and is well respected and appreciated in the Probate Court system. It is important that we have an effective and friendly Probate Court in West Haven,” added Last.
Delegates from the Town Committee also participated in conventions that endorsed Cindy Wolfe Boynton for the 117th district, James Maroney for the 14th senatorial district and Sen. Gary Winfield from the 10th senatorial district. Boynton from Milford will challenge incumbent Charles Ferraro (R-117) and Maroney also from Milford will vie for the senate seat currently held by Sen. Gayle Slossberg (D-14), who announced her retirement and will not seek re-election. Both districts include sizable portions of West Haven. Senator Gary Winfield is the incumbent in the 10th senatorial district that comprises of a part of New Haven and West Haven.
“We have very intelligent and hardworking candidates that care about Connecticut and West Haven. Connecticut is at a crossroads with many serious challenges that will require difficult decisions, long term solutions and a fundamental change on how we do business. We have a great team of democratic candidates that if elected will make the tough choices to make our state’s future brighter, sustainable and more competitive,” concluded Last.