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Democrat Jack Pavia launches campaign for 142nd District state House seat

March 31, 2026
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Ashley RK Smith

NORWALK, Conn. — Democrat Jack Pavia, a Norwalk native and senior at American University, announced Monday that he is running for state representative in the 142nd District, seeking to succeed outgoing Rep. Lucy Dathan.

Pavia said his campaign will focus on affordability issues, including housing, health care costs, transportation, and education funding.

“I’m running for State Representative for a simple reason: life is getting harder for working and middle-class families, and we can be doing more as a state to address the challenges we’re facing,” Pavia said. “Our basic needs, from housing to healthcare, are less affordable than they used to be.”

He also pointed to broader national and economic concerns, arguing that state leadership must respond with urgency and pursue policies that deliver “real, tangible change.”

Pavia, who said he has lived in Norwalk his entire life and attended Norwalk Public Schools, emphasized the importance of bringing new voices into the political process, particularly younger residents who may feel disengaged.

Several Democratic officials and local leaders announced endorsements alongside his campaign launch.

State Rep. Eleni Kavros DeGraw said Pavia understands the district’s needs.

“He has a firm grasp on the challenges Norwalk and New Canaan are facing, and he’s already listening to residents on their needs: housing, transportation, and tax equity,” Kavros DeGraw said.

Norwalk City Council member Rich Dellinger also endorsed Pavia, calling him “a great home-grown advocate: intelligent, thoughtful, and politically astute.”

Former Darien First Selectman Evonne Klein said Pavia represents a needed shift in leadership.

“I’m endorsing Jack because I believe it’s time for fresh voices at the table — voices that understand the challenges our state is facing and are ready to push for meaningful change,” Klein said.

Pavia has filed his campaign committee with the State Elections Enforcement Commission and is seeking to qualify for Connecticut’s Citizens’ Election Program. His campaign said Cynthia Dul, a former member of the New Canaan Democratic Town Committee, will serve as treasurer.

More information is available at his campaign website.

Editor’s Note: Jack Pavia previously co-hosted Community Ties, a podcast produced by NancyOnNorwalk. He is no longer affiliated with the podcast following his decision to run for elected office, and has no role in the newsroom’s editorial operations.

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Comments

10 responses to “Democrat Jack Pavia launches campaign for 142nd District state House seat”

  1. John O’Neill

    Couple of Quick thoghts:
    1) What does a 22 year old who’s attending a school that costs $ 80,000/year know about the difficulties Middle Class people are going thru?
    2) An endorsement from State Rep from Avon, Ct ? Degraw has said that anyone who doesn’t go to college is a “burden” to Connecticut. What?
    3) Jack may be a nice kid, but didn’t the last Dem who held office in the 142 spout off about her extensive business experience? Are we now being
    told that didn’t really matter ?

    I hope there’s an alternative for the 142. Maybe someone who actually lives in West Norwalk. College degree not required.

    1. Becca Stoll

      1. Neither of us knows how Jack and his family are paying for his degree, and it’s none of our business. College is expensive, but for a lot of people can be a worthy investment. I feel that the 142nd could benefit from a state rep who has training in liberal arts studies given that if elected, he’ll be doing a lot of reading, writing, and analysis.

      2. I’ve seen Jack around Norwalk so often that I was surprised when I learned he was a full-time student in DC. This dude gets around! He’s at public hearings, important meetings, and even some social events. His love of his home city and state is so clear to me, and I’m sure that dedication will continue if he is elected.
      3. A good legislature has a population with MANY backgrounds, not just one. The CT State House could benefit from more people like Jack who are young and passionate. What he has in common with the previous generation is that he is committed to putting down roots where he comes from. The difference is that they never had to rent first and get their groceries by e-biking on CT Ave, and possibly also split that paycheck up more to cover exorbitant rent and student loans.

      Nutmeggers should listen to what it’s like to work for the American dream in 2026. Jack is the breath of optimism we need to make it happen in a way that works today, not yesterday.

      1. John O’Neill

        All good points, however:
        1) I sense the goal posts move depending on who the Dem candidate is. Last one pushed hard on her business experience, which was considered a huge plus for her supporters. Here you have zero business experience, unless you include lifeguarding in an affluent section of town. Today, it’s not experience that’s helpful ,it’s youthful academic.
        2) While we all appreciate Jack’s love of Norwalk, how specifically does that translate into a 22 year old representing a district that’s been underrepresented for the last 10 years — Reminder to West Norwalkers — You have no representation in BOE, City Council, State Legislature.
        3) When you mention a 22 year old as “laying down roots” what exactly does that mean. While it makes for a good sound bite, how deep are those
        roots. Really?

    2. Elsa Peterson Obuchowski

      Yes, there is an alternative for the 142nd. Candidate Tina Duryea (often found on social media by tlduryea) filed a few days ago.

      https://www.instagram.com/tlduryea/

      https://x.com/ctelectionguide/status/2035086007473742143

      1. Mary Noonan

        Thrilled to support Tina Duryea!

  2. Tanner Thompson

    I am so excited to support Jack in this campaign! He will bring the perspective of a young person who not only came of age during the COVID pandemic, but also who primarily uses public transit and an e-bike to get around. Both of these are sorely needed in our state legislature.

    1. Peter Marino

      A young person who rides public transit And an e-bike. This is incredible. You forgot – reusable water bottle. Take my vote immediately.

      1. Tanner Thompson

        You realize that every person who chooses to take the bus or ride an e-bike is one less car you’re stuck behind in traffic?

        1. Peter Marino

          I’m sorry, I’m just not seeing the connection here on how riding an e‑bike or taking the bus translates into being qualified for public office… or how that affects anyone being stuck in traffic? Confused.

          1. Sarah Waters

            Jack Pavia will be a dedicated and hardworking representative for our area! I encourage you to lend your support! He has the energy and interest to engage, research and work on our behalf. He has the ability to listen, learn, AND lead. He’s smart, capable, and ethical. He’s got the power to win people over–here in Norwalk/New Canaan AND in in Hartford. Find the opportunity to meet him and see what he’s all about!

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