About

Leadership You Can Count On

I bring strong business leadership and deep financial expertise in budget management and revenue generation. With decades of experience running successful businesses and advising startups, I understand what it takes to build lasting economic growth.

For too long, New Haven has suffered from decades of frivolous spending, a failure to create new revenue streams, and an unfair burden placed on residents through rising taxes. It’s unacceptable that hardworking families have to bear the consequences of our elected officials’ mistakes.

It’s time to remove the failed leadership of Mayor Justin Elicker and implement new systems that put New Haven on the right path toward fiscal responsibility, economic growth, and opportunity for all.

“My career has been driven by passion, excellence, and above all, accountability. I will fight for you, your family, and the future of New Haven.” – Steve Orosco

Early Life and Upbringing

Steve Orosco was born and raised in Newport, Rhode Island, in a family that represents the very fabric of America, a blend of cultures, perseverance, and grit. His father immigrated to the United States from Trinidad in 1971, and his mother’s family came from Scotland, eventually settling in the Country in 1888. The two met in their youth and became young parents struggling, sacrificing, and working hard to give Steve a better future.

Like many Americans, Steve grew up watching his parents make difficult choices. From dropping out of college to raising their son in low-income housing, they never gave up on their dream. He remembers moving from a basement apartment to the second floor, and eventually to their own home in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. Every step forward was hard-earned. Spare change saved during the week so Steve’s family could afford Friday night takeout became a symbol of perseverance and progress. His parents’ story is the story of so many Americans: taking one step back to take two forward, so their child could have access to good schools, safe neighborhoods, and real opportunity. Steve took those lessons to heart.

Academic and Professional Highlights

Steve graduated from college, earning a double major in finance and marketing from Pace University in New York City. He then furthered his studies, earning both an MBA and a Master of Science in Management from Albertus Magnus College.

After college, Steve was recruited to work for Barnum Financial Group in Connecticut, a move that brought him to New Haven and planted the first seeds of a lasting connection to the city. During this time, he discovered a passion for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), training at Ultimate MMA in North Haven.

In 2009, Steve packed his car and drove 3,000 miles to San Diego in pursuit of a dream. There, he turned pro as an MMA fighter and began the next chapter of his life, not just fighting in the cage, but building something bigger.

Seeing a gap in the professional fighting arenas, Steve launched SMASH Global, a professional MMA league that merged world-class combat sports with black-tie galas honoring real-life heroes. The venture became a national success, hosting 10 high-profile events across California. Along the way, Steve launched multiple successful startups and established a reputation as a bold and strategic business leader.

Today, Steve can still be found in the gym training clients, leading youth programs, and helping people with disabilities. Steve believes that we must give back to the youth and community.

Now, Steve Orosco is stepping into the political arena to fight for a better future for New Haven. Steve isn’t a career politician; he’s someone who’s worked hard his whole life and understands what it takes to get ahead. He possesses an entrepreneurial and fighting spirit that can be leveraged to create a better future for New Haven.

Family Roots in New Haven

Steve’s greatest supporter and the love of his life is his wife, Jeannine. Her encouragement has been his anchor through every challenge and success. No matter where life took him, Steve always felt the pull of New Haven, especially Morris Cove, where Jeannine was born and raised,
and where her close-knit Italian-American family planted deep roots.

Together, Steve and Jeannine returned to New Haven to raise their family surrounded by the traditions, values, and community that shaped them. Family is at the heart of everything Steve does, and their shared love for one another is the foundation of his life.