In this episode of The Right Direction, Connecticut GOP Chairman Ben Proto sits down with Jen Tooker, First Selectwoman of Westport and Republican candidate for governor in 2026, for a lively and insightful conversation about Connecticut’s challenges—and its future.

Tooker shares her journey from corporate executive to public servant, why local leadership matters, and how her experience reopening Westport’s economy post-COVID shaped her vision for statewide change. Together, they tackle Connecticut’s affordability crisis, small business roadblocks, skyrocketing energy costs, education reform, and the growing pressure to centralize housing policy.

With a sharp focus on making Connecticut business-friendly, cutting red tape, and holding government accountable, Tooker outlines her plan to help the state not just survive—but thrive. She also offers a candid behind-the-scenes look at running in a blue state and why competence, not party labels, is winning voters over.

Whether you’re a political insider, a frustrated taxpayer, or small business owner wondering how Connecticut can turn things around, this episode delivers practical insights and a clear vision for what’s next.

Key Takeaways:

✔️ Tackling Affordability: From property taxes to energy bills, why cost of living is priority #1
✔️ Small Business First: Cutting red tape, supporting local enterprises, and rebuilding a competitive economy
✔️ Smarter Education: Local control, vocational options, and accountability over endless spending
✔️ Housing & Growth: Why one-size-fits-all mandates fail—and how local partnerships can deliver real solutions

🎙️ Want a front-row seat to the future of Connecticut politics? This episode brings sharp insights and practical plans from one of the GOP’s rising stars.

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Learn More About The Connecticut Republican Party: https://ct.gop

In this episode of The Right Direction, Connecticut GOP Chairman Ben Proto welcomes KC Crosbie, Co-Chair of the Republican National Committee, for an in depth and insightful conversation on the future of the Republican Party.

From her early grassroots work in Kentucky to leading national strategy alongside Chairman Michael Whatley, Crosbie shares her inspiring political journey and the bold new priorities of the RNC. Together, they dive into the evolving role of blue states like Connecticut, election integrity efforts nationwide, and how early voting and smarter resource strategies are helping Republicans win in unexpected places.

Crosbie offers behind-the-scenes insight into how the GOP is collaborating with President Trump’s team, investing in state parties, and building long-term infrastructure to win not just today—but for decades to come.

Whether you're a dedicated grassroots volunteer, a campaign strategist, or just someone wondering how Republicans can grow in Democrat strongholds, this episode delivers clarity, motivation, and a clear plan for what’s next.

Key Takeaways:

✔️ Turning Blue States Red: Lessons from Kentucky and how they apply to states like Connecticut
✔️ Election Integrity: Securing elections through early voting and voter integrity programs
✔️ State Party Strategy: Leveraging RNC tools and support to strengthen state parties
✔️ Building A Sustainable Majority: How the GOP plans to grow the party from the ground up

🎙️ Whether you're a news junkie, political strategist, or curious voter, this episode is packed with sharp insights and thoughtful reflections from both sides of the mic.

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Learn More About The Connecticut Republican Party: https://ct.gop

What’s it like covering Connecticut politics from the inside out? In this episode of The Right Direction, Chairman Ben Proto sits down with WTNH’s rising star political reporter Mike Cerulli for a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the state of journalism, Gen Z’s view of politics, and what’s really happening at the Capitol.

Cerulli, one of the youngest political reporters in the country, shares his unconventional journey from knocking doors for Democrats to becoming a fair and balanced fixture in Connecticut media. The conversation dives into how local news is evolving, the challenges of political bias in the media, and how the next generation is (or isn’t) engaging in the political process.

From Bridgeport’s ballot scandals to the future of political reporting on TikTok, this episode explores where Connecticut politics is heading—and how voters, candidates, and reporters are shaping the narrative.

Key Takeaways:

✔️ Inside Connecticut Media: How local news still dominates the political narrative—and where younger audiences get their information.
✔️ Gen Z & Politics: Why young voters feel disconnected, and what it takes to bring them into the process.
✔️ Bias & Balance: Cerulli unpacks the real challenges journalists face when covering Republicans in a Democrat-dominated state.
✔️ News in a TikTok World: The pressure to be first vs. the responsibility to be accurate.
✔️ What Comes Next: The disconnect between young voters and local policy—and the opportunity it presents for both parties.

🎙️ Whether you're a news junkie, political strategist, or curious voter, this episode is packed with sharp insights and thoughtful reflections from both sides of the mic.

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Learn More About The Connecticut Republican Party: https://ct.gop

What’s the real game plan for Connecticut Republicans? In this special episode of The Right Direction, the script is flipped—Executive Director Rebecca Terricciano takes over the mic to interview Chairman Ben Proto, diving into the party’s strategy, long-term vision, and the fight for conservative leadership in Connecticut.

From his first campaign experience knocking on doors for Gerald Ford to leading the charge for Republican victories in Connecticut, Proto shares his journey, insights on the state’s political landscape, and why running the party like a business is key to winning elections.

This episode is packed with behind-the-scenes strategy, lessons learned from the 2024 election cycle, and a roadmap for how the GOP plans to take back Connecticut in 2026 and beyond.

Key Takeaways:

✔️ Winning Strategy: How we’re using data, digital outreach, and grassroots efforts to secure victories.

✔️ Strong Candidates: The key traits of a Republican leader and why the right fit matters.

✔️ Party as a Business: Why long-term planning and financial discipline drive GOP success.

✔️ Inside Trump’s Campaigns: Ben’s firsthand experience working with President Trump.

✔️ Road to 2026: The GOP’s plan to win key elections in Connecticut.

🎧 If you care about the future of the Connecticut Republican Party and want to know the strategy behind the scenes, this episode is a must-listen. Hit play and stay informed on the path forward for our great state!

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Learn More About The Connecticut Republican Party: https://ct.gop

Listen to this week’s episode as we dive into a post-election policy discussion with Senator Ryan Fazio from Connecticut's 36th District! Discover how Fazio's background in economics and commodity shipping has armed him with the insights to tackle Connecticut's most pressing issues—high taxes, skyrocketing energy costs, and healthcare expenses. From his rise from a Northwestern University conservative firebrand to a community-focused politician who defied the odds with a well-connected grassroots campaign, you’ll learn about Senator Fazio’s transformative legislative proposals aimed at slashing costs for families by up to $3,000 annually, as well as his unapologetic stances on fiscal discipline and local governance.

Whether you’re a voter, policymaker, or engaged citizen, this episode offers valuable insights into the leadership we need to address Connecticut’s most pressing challenges.

Key Takeaways:

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from one of Connecticut’s leading voices in public service. Hit play and stay informed on the path forward for our great state!

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Learn More About The Connecticut Republican Party: https://ct.gop

In this episode, Ben Proto sits down with former prosecutor turned Bitcoin advocate, Tracy Hoyos, to explore her inspiring transformation from a liberal Democrat to a passionate Republican champion for cryptocurrency. Tracy opens up about her shift in political ideology and dives deep into the world of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency, revealing how they can offer financial independence to all, not just the wealthy. This conversation breaks down the myths surrounding crypto and sheds light on the growing divide between Republicans and Democrats on the future of digital currency.

Key Takeaways

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Learn More About The Connecticut Republican Party: https://ct.gop/ 

In this episode of The Right Direction, Connecticut Republican Party Chairman Ben Proto hosts a critical conversation with Red Jahncke, founder of The Red Line and expert on Connecticut’s economic landscape. They tackle the state’s mounting financial challenges, including Connecticut's high level of state indebtedness and the severe tax burden on residents. Jahncke delves into the regressive nature of property taxes and highlights the substantial increase in state employee wages over the past six years, which continues to strain the state budget. The discussion shifts to Connecticut's sluggish economic growth, difficulties in attracting and retaining businesses, and the persistent issues surrounding pension fund progress. Despite fiscal restraints, the state has struggled to stabilize its financial situation, particularly in managing employee compensation, pension liabilities, and healthcare benefits.

Key Takeaways

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Learn More About The Connecticut Republican Party: https://ct.gop/ 

Read more from Red at The Red Line: https://www.the-red-line.com/about 

State Senator Lisa Seminara discusses her background and journey into politics, as well as some of the key issues she has worked on during her first term. She highlights the passage of the wheelchair bill, which ensures timely repairs for wheelchair users, and the aging in place policies that support seniors in staying in their homes. She also addresses the issue of unaffordable energy costs in Connecticut and suggests capping power purchase agreements to mitigate future costs. The conversation covers various suggestions made by the Republicans to address the rising energy costs in Connecticut. These suggestions include capping power purchase agreements, moving public benefits off the bill and into the state's budget, separating regulatory and policy bodies, including nuclear and hydro power in class one renewables, and terminating the EV rebate program. The conversation also touches on other important issues such as improving the business climate, fully funding special education services, addressing rising crime rates, and bringing a common-sense approach to the legislature. Lisa Seminara is seeking re-election as she believes she brings a common-sense voice to the state Senate.

Key Takeaways

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Learn More About The Connecticut Republican Party: https://ct.gop/ 

Learn More About Senator Lisa Seminara: https://lisaforctsenate.com/ 

In this conversation, Connecticut Republican Chairman Ben Proto interviews Mayor Erin Stewart of New Britain. They discuss Mayor Stewart's journey into politics, her approach to leadership, and the importance of community involvement. They also touch on the challenges faced by urban centers and the need for Republicans to expand their reach in these areas. Mayor Stewart emphasizes the importance of trust, grassroots organizing, and addressing the needs of the community. They also discuss the differences in issues between urban and affluent communities, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by each community. In this conversation, Erin Stewart, the Mayor of New Britain, Connecticut, discusses her role in the Republican Mayor's Association and the challenges facing Connecticut cities and towns. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the diverse communities within the state and the need for effective leadership. Stewart also highlights the work of the Republican Mayor's Association in supporting Republican mayors across the country and their focus on getting more Republican mayors elected in urban areas. She discusses the challenges of property taxes, the need for education reform, and the importance of investing in young people. Stewart encourages voters to look beyond party affiliation and consider the passion and capability of the candidates they support.

Takeaways:

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Learn More About The Connecticut Republican Party: https://ct.gop/ 

Learn More About Mayor Stewart: https://www.stewartfornb.com 

In this conversation, Connecticut Republican Chairman Ben Proto interviews Bob MacGuffie, a long-time Republican activist and the endorsed Republican candidate for the fourth congressional district in Connecticut. They discuss Bob's background, his reasons for running for Congress, and the key issues he plans to address if elected. The main themes of the conversation include the state of the economy, the national debt, energy independence, the affordability crisis in Connecticut, and border security. Bob emphasizes the need to stop the increase in government debt, regain energy independence, and incentivize business growth in the state. He also highlights the importance of securing the border and addressing the influx of illegal drugs. Throughout the conversation, Bob expresses his commitment to representing the interests of the citizens in his district and voting in their favor. In this conversation, Bob MacGuffie and Ben Proto discuss various political topics, including bipartisan bills, foreign affairs (specifically Israel and Ukraine), and Bob MacGuffie's campaign priorities. They emphasize the need for genuine bipartisanship and the importance of supporting Israel in the face of Hamas aggression. They also discuss the conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the role of the United States in that situation. Bob MacGuffie highlights the border, debt, and energy independence as his top priorities for Congress. They also discuss the importance of voter engagement and fundraising for political campaigns.

Key Takeaways

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Learn More About The Connecticut Republican Party: https://ct.gop/ 

Learn More About Bob MacGuffie: https://www.bobmacforcongress.com/