Derek Slap of West Hartford has been unanimously endorsed as the Democratic candidate for the 19th District.

Submitted

State Rep. Derek Slap received the unanimous endorsement of Democratic delegates representing the 19th House District Wednesday evening at a meeting held at the West Hartford Senior Center on Starkel Road.

Slap is completing his first term in office for the district, which consists of parts of West Hartford, Avon, and Farmington. The nomination means Slap’s name will be on the ballot on election day in November.

“I’m honored to receive the Democratic nomination and once again be on the ballot in November,” said Slap. “While candidates run as Democrats or Republicans – we must never lose sight of the fact that we are elected to serve all people. I’m pleased that over the last two legislative sessions I’ve been able to work across party lines to pass important bills that will help closer the gender wage gap, protect funding for our schools, and increase transparency at the MDC.”

Slap was nominated by Samantha Wimpe, a West Hartford resident and corporate recruiter who earlier this year testified in support of the pay equity bill that he introduced. Wimpe’s expert testimony ultimately helped secure near unanimous passage – 142-4 in the House and 35-1 in the Senate.

As a freshman legislator, Slap earned awards from various statewide groups. The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters gave him a legislative champion award, one of only 12 lawmakers to receive one, for his work on water conservation. Slap also received the ARC Angel award in 2017, the only legislator to do so, for his advocacy for folks with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Slap was also a vocal advocate for a bipartisan budget compromise in 2017, publicly and consistently urging both sides to reach consensus.

“By working collaboratively we’ve been able to make a difference over the last two years,” said Slap. “But I know that elections are always about the future and we must continue to work together to strengthen our economy, balance the budget, and protect our communities. It’s so critical that every person has an opportunity to be heard and share their priorities. That’s why I’m committed to spending the next six months visiting every street and neighborhood in the 19th House district.”

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