Elizabeth Esty

Connecticut State Legislator Elizabeth Esty is running for Connecticut's 5th District Congressional seat

Prospects and Opponents: Esty is facing a tough primary against two other democratic candidates – activist Dan Roberti, and State House Speaker Chris Donovan. However, Donovan's Campaign Finance Manager was recently arrested in a scheme to kill a piece of legislation and for funneling illegal campaign contributions to the Donovan campaign. Donovan says he knew nothing about the scheme until he got a call from the FBI. It is unclear at this time what impact this will have on the race. There are several Republicans in the primary in this likely Democratic district.

Legislative Achievements and Positions on Key Issues: Esty wants to stop the Republican assault on Planned Parenthood. She supports womens reproductive health and freedoms, and has a long record of advocacy for pro-choice causes. She also supports the Lilly Ledbetter Act for equal pay for equal work. While in the state legislature, Esty worked hard to ensure that women are protected from domestic violence, and she was a children's advocate. She voted in the legislature to ensure full marriage rights and benefits to gay couples. Currently, she is a Senior Research Scholar at Yale Law School concentrating on health care policy, women in legal education, and family law.

Endorsements: Esty has been endorsed by Emily's List, the Women's Campaign Forum, National Women's Political Caucus, and Democracy for America.

Website: www.elizabethesty.com