Eric Berthel

Eric Berthel is an American politician currently serving as a Republican member of the Connecticut Senate, representing the 32nd district since 2017. His legislative work encompasses a range of issues pertinent to the communities within his district, which includes parts of Litchfield County and the Naugatuck River Valley. Berthel's career in public service began at the local level, where he was involved in educational governance before transitioning to state politics.

Early life and career

Eric Berthel was born on March 28, 1967, in Brooklyn, New York. He moved to Connecticut in 1976 and completed his secondary education at Pomperaug Regional High School. Following high school, Berthel pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor's degree from Manhattanville College in Purchase, New York. He furthered his studies by obtaining a Master's degree from the University of Bridgeport in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

Berthel's public service career began in 2011 when he was elected to the Board of Education for Watertown, Connecticut. During his tenure on the Board, he engaged actively in various subcommittees, chairing four of them, and held several leadership positions including Board Secretary, Vice Chairman, and interim Chairman. He also served as the Board liaison for three of the five schools in the district. His involvement in educational governance lasted until 2014, when he transitioned to a role in the Connecticut State House of Representatives.

Legislative service

In 2014, Berthel was elected to the Connecticut House of Representatives, where he served until 2017. His legislative career took a significant turn when he was elected to the Connecticut Senate, representing the 32nd district. This district encompasses a diverse range of communities, including Bethlehem, Bridgewater, Middlebury (in part), Oxford, Roxbury, Seymour (in part), Southbury, Washington, Watertown, and Woodbury. As a state senator, Berthel has been involved in various legislative initiatives and has focused on issues relevant to his constituents.

Berthel considered a run for the open congressional seat in Connecticut's 5th congressional district in 2018 but ultimately opted to seek reelection to the state Senate instead. His decision to remain in state politics allowed him to continue his work on local issues and maintain his influence within the Connecticut General Assembly.

Throughout his time in the Senate, Berthel has introduced various pieces of legislation, including proposals related to wildlife management, such as the reintroduction of bear hunting in Connecticut. His legislative actions reflect his commitment to addressing the concerns of his constituents and managing the state's natural resources effectively.

Berthel's political career has not been without controversy. In September 2020, a photograph surfaced showing his car with a sticker supporting QAnon, a movement associated with conspiracy theories. The revelation sparked significant discussion on social media platforms. Initially, Berthel defended the movement, suggesting that it had motivated individuals to engage more actively in policy and governance. However, he later issued an apology, acknowledging that he had not fully understood the extreme views associated with the movement and expressing regret for his initial support. Despite the controversy, Berthel successfully won reelection for a third term in the November 2020 election.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Connecticut Senate, Berthel's policy focus encompasses a variety of issues that resonate with the residents of his district. His legislative priorities include education, public safety, and environmental management, reflecting the diverse needs of the communities he represents. Berthel's background in education, stemming from his time on the Board of Education, informs his approach to educational policy, where he advocates for initiatives that support local schools and improve educational outcomes for students.

Berthel's district, the 32nd, is characterized by its mix of urban and rural areas, with a population that values both community engagement and environmental stewardship. This demographic diversity influences his legislative agenda, as he seeks to balance the interests of different constituents, from suburban families to rural residents.

In addition to education, Berthel has shown a particular interest in wildlife management and conservation issues. His proposal to reintroduce bear hunting in Connecticut is indicative of his commitment to addressing wildlife-related concerns, particularly as they pertain to public safety and ecological balance. This focus on environmental issues aligns with broader discussions within the state regarding sustainable practices and responsible management of natural resources.

Berthel's ongoing service in the Connecticut Senate reflects his dedication to representing the interests of his constituents in the 32nd district. As he continues to navigate the complexities of state governance, his legislative actions will likely remain influenced by the diverse perspectives and needs of the communities he serves. Through his work, Berthel aims to contribute to the development of policies that foster growth, safety, and sustainability within Connecticut.

In his personal life, Berthel resides in Watertown, Connecticut, with his wife, Krista, and their two sons, Matthew and Paul. His family life is a significant aspect of his identity, grounding his public service in the values and experiences that shape his understanding of the needs of Connecticut families.