Kaitlyn Shake (D)
Candidate for State House District 120
Bio: Kaitlyn Shake
Kaitlyn Shake is a proud AFSCME CHCA Unit 23 member, and nurse with over a decade of experience caring for the needs of women and children. Outside of her demanding job as a frontline healthcare worker, Shake is serving her third term on the Stratford Town Council as Democratic Party Leader. Working across the aisle, Shake accomplished several victories, benefitting her district and all residents of Stratford on public safety, increasing education funding, securing funding for overdue infrastructure projects, connecting business owners with state funding during COVID-19, strongly advocating for Paid Family Medical Leave and protecting our green spaces. After working on her 5th town budget in the spring of 2024, it is clear that Stratford will need a strong, trusted State Representative who can get the work done by working collaboratively at the State level to ensure our schools, businesses, and residents can succeed.
- Which office are you running for, and why?
I’m running to be Stratford’s State Representative HD 120. During my three terms on Town Council, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to listen to our community’s concerns and take swift action. Whether advocating for increased funding for public safety, education and championing environmental initiatives, I have consistently proved that I will show up to fight on behalf of Stratford, and deliver for our residents.
Affordability has been a cornerstone of my efforts here in Stratford. Most of us believe that people who work for a living ought to be able to afford a safe place to live, quality healthcare, and to put food on the table. I know that people in Stratford are struggling. I understand that working middle-class families are the backbone of our community, and I will work tirelessly to guarantee access to affordable housing, healthcare, and essential services. I am committed to securing funding for local programs to ease the financial burden on families and ensure our tax dollars are used wisely.
Education continues to be a major concern here in Stratford. I recognize that a strong public education system is the foundation of a thriving community. During my three terms in office I have been a strong advocate for our schools and our teachers. My commitment to public education here in Stratford is why I have fought for increased funding, better resources, and improved opportunities for our children. I know that an investment in our education system is an investment for our future. As a 2024 CEA Honor Roll designee, I will continue to champion education policies that support our children and their teachers.
My commitment to our community goes beyond these essential issues. I am a vocal advocate for fairness and equality, especially for our most vulnerable residents; children, seniors and veterans. My ability to listen, understand, and take action sets me apart as a leader.
- What are your qualifications for this position?
Protecting our Schools:
During my three terms on Town Council, I have a proven track record of putting people before party. I worked across the aisle to protect our schools, and delivered an additional $1 million dollars for Stratford Public Schools. Unlike my opponent, I offered my support in favor of free school meals, because no child should have to learn on an empty stomach. My continuous support of public education is why I have received endorsements from AFT-CT, the 4 C’s, Congress of State Connecticut Community Colleges, Local SEIU 1973, and made the 2024 CEA Honor Roll.
Protecting Our Land:
I’ve delivered over $350,000 in historical infrastructure improvements to Longbrook Park, Motil Pond and High Park while protecting old growth trees. Additionally, I secured $150,000 in funding for the long overdue South End Flood Study. From forest to shore, Stratford’s environmental issues are vital to the health and well-being of our community. Protecting our natural resources, town parks, and open spaces has been and will continue to be one of my priorities as your next State Representative. This is why I am proud to be endorsed by the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters.
Protecting Our Community:
Working with Stratford Public Safety, I advocated and delivered funding for additional safety cameras, traffic mitigation interventions, and increased police patrols on our streets. I am the only Stratford candidate to receive local endorsements from Stratford’s Police Union AFSCME Local 407 and Stratford Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 998. Additionally, I received state-wide endorsements from the Uniformed Professional Firefighters Association of Connecticut and AFSCME Council 4.
- What is your vision for Stratford’s future? Please be as specific as possible.
I will support and introduce legislation in Hartford that will address the following needs in our community:
• Fight to lower the costs of housing and child care
• Support and grow our small businesses
• Hold profit-hungry utility companies accountable
• Enforce price gouging protections on groceries
• Prioritize more tax relief for working families
• Advocate for more services and tax exemptions for seniors and veterans
- What do you believe can be your greatest contribution to Stratford in this new position?
I will continue to be of service in any way I can to my community. Before I was an elected official, I was a community organizer and lifelong advocate. As a union member, I understand the importance of creating a workforce that works for everyone and not just those at the top. I fought hard for a municipal budget that reflects our values—I challenged local leaders and delivered critical funding for our schools. Stratford needs a leader with passion, grit, and determination, because we are not the only community with growing needs. As your next State Representative here in the 120th, I vow to be a leader who works tirelessly across the aisle with civility and determination.
