Rep. Rosa DeLauro Endorses Bartolomeo in the 13th State Senate District

Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) today announced her endorsement of Democratic State Senate candidate Dante´ Bartolomeo, who is running for the 13th Senate District seat that represents Meriden, Cheshire, Middletown, Middlefield and Rockfall. Congresswoman DeLauro currently represents Middlefield, Rockfall and Middletown as part of the 3rd Congressional district.

“The years of leadership Dante´ has dedicated to her community as a City Councilwoman and community advocate make her an ideal candidate for State Senator.” DeLauro said. “Her commitment to serving her constituents is second to none, and I have every confidence that Dante´ will represent the entire 13th District with the same integrity and dedication that has guided her to this point.”

“I am most grateful to receive Congresswoman DeLauro’s endorsement for my State Senate race and am truly excited to have her support,” Bartolomeo said. “Congresswoman DeLauro has been an inspiration to me and her years of public service on behalf of Connecticut’s citizens speaks for itself. I would be honored to have the opportunity to work with her to ensure a better quality of life for the citizens of the 13th District.”

In particular, Congresswoman DeLauro cited Bartolomeo’s longtime advocacy on behalf of women in her District and her dedication to safeguarding women’s rights, including access to health care and education, income equality and reproductive freedoms. Recently, Bartolomeo participated in a Middletown panel discussion organized by DeLauro and Congressman Chris Murphy (D-CT) that focused on the importance of providing women access to affordable and comprehensive health care.

“With Dante´, Connecticut’s women will have a true champion in the General Assembly. She will work tirelessly to ensure their rights, health and safety are protected,” Congresswoman DeLauro said. “As State Senator, Dante´ will continue to ensure that all women have a strong voice in Hartford.”

Congresswoman DeLauro also noted that when current 13th District State Senator Len Suzio filed a budget amendment in 2011 to eliminate all state funding – about $2 million in total – to Connecticut Planned Parenthood clinics, Bartolomeo joined with legislative and community leaders in opposition to the proposed cut.

“We need more leaders in State government that appreciate the real-world impact our decisions have on our communities and working families,” Congresswoman DeLauro said. “Dante´ is that kind of leader.”

About Dante Bartolomeo

Dante´ Bartolomeo has served on the Meriden City Council since 2008 and is currently Deputy Majority Leader. She is also Chair of the Public Works and Parks & Recreation Committee, Vice-Chair of the Finance Committee and Liaison to the Board of Education. Under her watch, Meriden has reduced its operating expenses three out of the last four years, fully funded its pension obligations and increased its bond rating by three notches to AA-. Prior to her role as a City Councilwoman, Bartolomeo served her community as an advocate for universal health care and enhanced educational opportunities for Meriden students. She and her husband, Doug, have two sons: Riley, 16 and Cameron, 10.