The Wilton Dems recently asked 10 Questions of Savet Constantine, State Representative for the 42nd District including Wilton and parts of Ridgefield and New Canaan. Savet was first elected Nov. 2024, and is running for re-election. The New Canaan Dems have proudly endorsed Savet Constantine for the 42nd District.
1. How long have you lived in Wilton?
Twenty-four years!
2. What brought you here?
Our two kids needed more room to run around than our New York City apartment could offer. Wilton gave us room to grow.
3. Name your three favorite things about living in Wilton.
The trails for walking and hiking; the feeling of living in the country while being a short drive from restaurants, shops, and the water; and our excellent schools.
4. What keeps you awake at night?
Wondering what our future here will look like. When I talk with residents, I hear about high property taxes, the cost of heating a home through winter, and worries about what’s happening in Washington. I hear from young people wondering whether they’ll ever be able to buy a home. I want people to have a chance to thrive here, to stay in the community they love, and to see a future here for their children.
A recent call reviewing changes under H.R. 1, the federal budget law, brought those concerns into sharp focus. I worry about what federal cuts and new requirements will mean for families already stretched thin, including veterans living with service-related disabilities. The thought of someone losing access to food or health care because they couldn’t navigate the paperwork stays with me.
That’s where worry turns into work. I’m rolling up my sleeves to understand the changes, help people navigate them, and keep working to make Connecticut more affordable. These are our neighbors. Helping them find a way forward is what makes this work matter so much to me.
5. What’s the main reason you ran for office?
I know we can make government work better for us. A good idea or a good bill should make a difference in someone’s life.
When people raise a problem and never see an answer, it’s understandable that they lose faith in the system. I ran because I want to help close that gap: to listen, follow through, and make sure the work we do in Hartford delivers real solutions for people.
6. What is the biggest issue, as you see it, the Connecticut House will be facing this year?
Making our lives more affordable while responding to federal cuts and changes. Families need relief from the increases in everyday costs, property taxes, and health care premiums. Connecticut will face difficult choices about protecting the services people rely on while investing in an economy that gives people more opportunity.
For me, the questions behind those choices are always: Will this make everyday life better and more affordable? Will it help create good jobs and build a stronger future for Connecticut? And will it give towns like Wilton the flexibility to shape their growth in ways that preserve what makes them special?
7. What is your favorite season?
Fall for the changing leaves, cooler temperatures, and all the pumpkin and outdoor festivals.
8. What’s the best job you ever had?
My current one as state representative! It’s challenging, full of curveballs, and deeply meaningful. Getting to help someone work through a problem and knowing that it made a difference is hard to beat.
9. What’s the best gift you ever gave?
An Elmer Fudd hat for my husband, which I found at Barneys of all places! It may be the only time we’ve caught him laughing on camera. Worth every penny.
10. Favorite quote?
“Pivot! Pi-vot!” from Friends. My days of moving furniture myself may be over, but knowing when to change direction still comes in handy.