Democrat To Challenge Shea In 112th District

By Steve Bigham

Another battle appears to be brewing in the race for the 112th Assembly District seat as Democrat Joseph Ziehl has declared his intention to run. He seeks to unseat first-term Republican incumbent Pat Shea, who is no stranger to political battles.

Two years ago, Mrs Shea of Monroe outlasted Democrat Andrew Nunn, after defeating fellow Republican Edward A. Callo in a primary, to capture the seat, which had previously been held by William Varese. Mr Varese opted to bow out of the race following a drunken driving arrest outside a strip joint in Bridgeport the year before.

Mr Ziehl is a current member of the Monroe Planning & Zoning Commission and has been active in zoning issues in the past. He is a self-employed attorney.

“Joe Ziehl is the type of candidate who has the ability, the drive and determination to win the race. Joe will make an excellent state representative and give the citizens of the district the competent, forceful representation they deserve,” noted Monroe Democratic Town Chairman Greg Conte.

Mr Ziehl said he looks forward to an issues-oriented campaign focused on the needs of the district and who is best suited to pursue those needs in Hartford.

Mrs Shea believes her record during her first term will be enough to send her back again. The Republican from Monroe served on three committees – education, transportation and human services – and, according to a press release, voted for $300 million in tax relief, including gas tax reduction. In addition, she voted in favor of legislation to protect and acquire open space, reform in the state treasurer’s office and a one-time cost sharing plan that sent $250,000 to Newtown.

District 112 covers all of Monroe and parts of Botsford and Sandy Hook.