Young, political newcomer who unseated longtime state representative speaks on what’s ahead

TORRINGTON, Conn. (WFSB) - After a razor-thin margin of only a few dozen votes, young, political newcomer Joe Canino unseated a longtime state representative in Torrington.

“I decided I wanted to take this opportunity to give back to the town that has raised me, that has given me so much and that is struggling right now,” said Joe Canino, (R), 65th House District Representative-Elect.

27-year-old Joe Canino is a new voice in Connecticut’s capitol representing the people of Torrington.

Canino was born and raised in the city.

He worked as a press secretary for the state senate Republicans.

This was his first time running for public office.

“I have covered every major committee as I have followed the legislature. I am very in tune with the issues that are important of the day and I’m going to take this head-on,” he said.

After a recount, he defeated democrat Michelle Cook by just 55 votes.

It was a dramatic election in a city that saw broken tabulators and issues with coding on election night.

Cook has previously held onto this seat for the past 16 years.

“I hope to work on her accomplishments and build on the work that she’s done,” Canino said.

Canino says some of the state’s recent legislative efforts have not been in the best interest of Torrington residents, particularly hurting small businesses.

“Creating a slush fund for striking workers. Again, tipping the scales of labor policy against employers and forcing more employers to move out of the state, if that wasn’t vetoed. Another thing is the mandatory paid sick leave bill. Which sounds great in practice but has the result of requiring small businesses who have even one employee to provide 40 hours of sick leave for their employees,” said Canino.

Canino says the number one priority for Torrington and Connecticut residents is minimizing the impact of an affordability crisis.

“I will oppose any unfounded mandate on towns. I will oppose any new taxes on our residents who are already paying too much. People want to come to Connecticut, it’s beautiful here. We have so much to offer. But everywhere you turn the government has its hand out asking for more,” he said.

Canino will be sworn in this January.