Lesser Visits White House to Talk Jobs, Economy

Age and experience go a long way in Washington, but when the President of the United States addresses you as a member of the "young hot shots," it's hard not to be flattered.

President Obama half-jokingly gave the name to a group of young elected officials, including state Rep. Matt Lesser, visiting the White House last week (see video).

"It was fantastic. It was an unbelievable honor," Lesser said about the visit. He'd never personally met Obama before Friday's trip.

"I've heard him speak before, but never met him," he said.

The 28-year-old, who represents Durham, Middlefield and Middletown, was among a small number of members of the Young Elected Officials Network invited to meet with top administration officials to talk about the economy and jobs.

"The most valuable part of the day for me was being able to sit down with members of the administration to talk about what we can do in Connecticut. I was talking to the energy czar (Steven Chu) about creating jobs by lowering energy costs," Lesser said. "I offered some suggestions."

Lesser said he spoke briefly to the president, who addressed the the group for about ten minutes.

"They want to build the middle-class by boosting manufacturing, which is great news for Connecticut. The state's unemployment rate is 9.1, the same as the federal rate," Lesser said. 

To accomplish the goal, Lesser said the administration is looking to "cut the deficit, streamline government and support the private sector."

A contingent from Connecticut joined Lesser on the trip, including state Rep. Mae Flexer (D-Killingly, Plainfield and Sterling), state Rep. James Ablis (D-East Haven), state Rep. Chris Lyddy (D-Newtown), East Haven Mayor April Capone and Middletown Planning and Zoning Chairman Quentin Phipps.

Editor's Note: More photos can be found at state Rep. Matt Lesser's Facebook page.