CT's "No Kings" Rallies: A Distraction from the Real Affordability Crisis

Our CT political leaders took to the stage at "No Kings" rallies yesterday, March 28. In Greenwich, speeches were made by CT Governor Ned Lamont (D), U.S. Congressman Jim Himes (D), Attorney General William Tong (D), and State Reps Hector Arzeno (D) and Steve Meskers (D). Our two U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D) and Chris Murphy (D) were also on the speaking trail. The rallies focused on national constitutional theory and ideology. Meanwhile, a far more grounded crisis is unfolding in their own backyard.

New AARP research reveals that Connecticut is facing a demographic exodus. More than one-third (37%) of residents age 45+ have considered leaving the state in the past year. For those still in the workforce (ages 45-64), that number climbs to 44%. They aren't leaving because of national politics; they are leaving because they are being priced out.

The Hard Numbers

The financial pressures on Connecticut residents are no longer sustainable:

• Utility Costs: 70% of residents believe state officials are not doing enough to keep utilities affordable.

• Housing Gap: 60% of adults say they could not find a smaller, affordable home in their own community if they needed to downsize.

• Healthcare Barriers: 33% of residents over 45 report they cannot afford their healthcare; 20% have skipped medical care due to costs.

• Daily Survival: Among those aged 45-64, 30% struggled to afford food in the last year, and 42% have stopped saving for retirement entirely.

Hiding Behind Partisan Rallies

There is a striking disconnect when local officials spend their energy at rallies focused on "No Kings" or federal overreach while presiding over a state where 92% of constituents are being crushed by affordability issues at home.

Between the Lines: We don't need more political posturing or national slogans; we need our political leaders to solve the cost of living crisis here before the "Connecticut Exodus" becomes permanent.

Story here