Democrat Ashley Gillece of Pawcatuck was endorsed by her party Wednesday night to run as its candidate for the 43rd District state representative seat.

The newly redrawn district includes the eastern and northern portions of Stonington, North Stonington and the eastern section of Ledyard.

Gillece will likely face incumbent Republican Greg Howard of Stonington, who is expected to be endorsed by his party next week.     

Gillece has served as a member of the Stonington Charter Revision Commission and the Stonington Democratic Town Committee and has been involved in town and school issues in Stonington as a resident.

She said she is running to be a strong voice for womens rights, working class families, affordable health care including mental health, those affected by the opioid crisis, and for veterans to receive the services they deserve.

"Like many in the 43rd, I have watched multiple bills be voted on in Hartford over the past two years that do not align with what I believe is best for our district. Recent no votes on abortion protections as well as a state budget that included over $600 million in tax breaks for middle class families has led me to this point where I need to stand up for those who's voices have not been heard," she said in a statement announcing her run.