Connecticut is facing a significant housing crisis, a pressing issue that impacts residents across the state. Despite being a topic of debate year after year at the State Capitol, housing remains a divisive issue, and some advocates feel it’s not getting the attention it deserves in the upcoming state legislative elections.
“There’s a massive disconnect between the real-world housing crisis and how elected officials are responding,” said Pete Harrison, the Connecticut director of the Regional Plan Association.
Like many other states, Connecticut has seen housing costs skyrocket due to a severe shortage of available units, especially affordable ones. It's estimated that the state is nearly 100,000 affordable units short, leaving many low-income residents struggling to keep up with rent. Homelessness, which had been declining, has surged by over 30% from 2021 to 2024.
Both Democrats and Republicans acknowledge the housing problem, but they remain divided on how to address it. Many Democrats favor policies that would mandate affordable housing development in every town, while Republicans typically advocate for “local control” over housing decisions, opposing state-imposed requirements.
Even with Democratic control of the state legislature, sweeping housing reform has been elusive. Proposals like the "Fair Share" bill, which would set state-mandated housing targets, have failed to pass despite moving through committees. Republicans, meanwhile, have actively campaigned against such measures, advocating for less state intervention.
Although Democrats have passed smaller reforms, such as requiring towns to submit affordable housing plans and setting stricter rules for landlords, advocates argue these efforts fall short of addressing the full scope of the crisis. House Majority Leader Jason Rojas, a leading proponent of housing reform, believes Democrats will continue to push for solutions if reelected, but progress has been slow.
As the November elections approach, housing advocates are watching closely. While some Democrats shy away from emphasizing housing reform in their campaigns, others, along with liberal advocates, believe a stronger Democratic presence in the legislature could lead to more ambitious housing policies. At the same time, Republicans like Alexis Harrison, who champions local control, are running to block proposals they feel threaten the character of local communities.
Housing has also become a key issue in the presidential race. Vice President Kamala Harris has placed housing at the forefront of her platform, advocating for the construction of millions of new homes and providing tax credits for first-time buyers. Former President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has focused more on immigration as a way to free up housing, accusing Democrats of trying to "abolish the suburbs."
As the elections near, both sides hope voters will engage on the issue and hold candidates accountable for their positions on housing. Whether the elections will bring meaningful change to Connecticut’s housing crisis remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the need for solutions is urgent, and the stakes are high for residents across the state.
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