FROM THE DESK OF GWEN SAMUEL
I am a mother, grandmother, Marine Corps veteran, community leader, and longtime advocate for government transparency, expanded education opportunities, protecting parent rights and nurturing family and community self-empowerment.
I served in the United States Marine Corps as an 0151 Administrative Clerk during the 80s. During my boot-camp days, I made history as the first woman Marine authorized to complete the Marine Corps Ten-Man Challenge Course, after receiving special approval from General Alfred M. Gray Jr., the 29th Commandant of the Marine Corps. Breaking through barriers in a very male-dominated environment taught me lessons in perseverance, courage, and determination that continue to shape my approach to leadership and public service.
Like many veterans, I understand that some wounds of service are invisible. Having been diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), I believe there should be no shame in seeking help. My good, bad, and ugly parts of my life experiences have strengthened my commitment to ensuring that veterans, active-duty service members, and military families receive the support, resources, and respect they deserve.
For decades, I have worked to strengthen families, expand educational opportunities, advocate for parents, and encourage greater civic engagement throughout Connecticut. My work has taken me from local communities to the halls of Congress, where I testified on behalf of parents and students.
When Adrian Bonenberger asked me to join him in running for Lieutenant Governor, I was humbled and honored. As a fellow veteran who served our nation in Afghanistan, Adrian's commitment to service and willingness to challenge the status quo resonated with my own belief that leadership begins with putting people before politics.
Today, I am running for Lieutenant Governor because I believe Connecticut deserves leadership that listens, serves, and works to bring people together. I am committed to helping build a safer, stronger, and more affordable Connecticut for families, veterans, seniors, workers, and future generations.
— Gwen E. Samuel
Candidate for Lieutenant Governor
GwenForCT.com
WE ARE RUNNING TOGETHER
When Adrian Bonenberger asked me to join him in running for Lieutenant Governor of Connecticut, I was both humbled and honored. Adrian is a veteran who served our nation in Afghanistan and has continued to advocate for freedom and self-determination abroad. His willingness to challenge the status quo and ask difficult questions about Connecticut’s future is what first caught my attention.
But this campaign is not about Adrian or me. It is about us.
— Gwen E. Samuel
Read MoreTHREE PRIORITIES FOR CONNECTICUT.
These are the issues Gwen will champion as Lieutenant Governor — grounded in what residents have asked for at kitchen tables, town halls, and front porches across the state.
CHANGE DOES NOT HAPPEN FROM THE SIDELINES.
Every door knocked, every signature gathered, every conversation started, every story shared moves this campaign forward. Pick the way you want to help — and we’ll meet you there.