The 2026 Connecticut Midterm Elections: A New Era of Competition

The 2026 Connecticut midterm elections promise to be reality TV at its finest, with both the Democrat and Republican political parties, aka known as the “good ole boys” network faces challenges from diverse candidates, women, and highly competitive primaries. This raises the fundamental question: do both parties truly want the best candidate to win, or will in-house fighting and political shenanigans once again sideline voters and taxpayers’ voices, as seen in previous election cycles?

Party primaries are meant to foster healthy competition. These are opportunities for courageous candidates - especially underdogs and younger candidates- to test their ideas and refine their messages in direct response to the people’s will for the future of Connecticut. The goal is to earn every voter’s trust and support ahead of the general election. Ideally, this process should exemplify fairness and democracy in action, providing an open political landscape free from retaliation and favoritism.

Understanding Connecticut Primary Elections

As a Connecticut resident, taxpayer, and voter, it is crucial that voters, especially within urban, rural, and marginalized communities, become more informed.

Civic Lesson 101: What exactly is a primary?

In Connecticut, a primary election allows registered voters of a political party to choose which candidate from their party will appear on the ballot for the November general election. In 2026, the primary election will take place on Tuesday, August 11, with early voting available from August 3rd to August 9th. The general election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

Races to Watch: Republicans/GOP/Conservatives

All races and elections are significant because elected officials represent local, state, and federal issues with an understanding that politics is mostly local because, as the former Representative Porter used to say, “the people closest to the problem are the ones with the solutions”.

In my opinion, the late scheduling of primaries tends to leave voters and party delegates divided for too long, which is unfair. This prolonged division can create noise and rhetoric, causing low propensity and undecided voters to disengage, ultimately leaving constituents vulnerable to re-electing candidates who have repeatedly not represented their interests.

The Republican gubernatorial races, featuring candidates such as Erin Stewart, Ryan Fazio, and Betsy McCaughey, have already caused division within the GOP.

Additionally, Republicans face tough congressional races, as the last Republican to hold a U.S. House seat from Connecticut was Chris Shays, who lost in 2008. This loss ended Republican representation in the state’s congressional delegation. Furthermore, Connecticut has not had a Republican U.S. Senator since Lowell Weicker was reelected in 1982, highlighting the uphill battle for Republican candidates in the state.

Races to Watch: Democrats

On the Democratic side, change is imminent, especially in Middletown. The Democrats, who are allergic to primaries, will be challenged with a primary against incumbent Senator Matt Lesser.

It takes courage to run for public office, and Ms. Anita Ford Saunders, president of the Middlesex County NAACP, is leading this challenge, representing a branch recognized as strong and bold by community members. Please note that she is more than her NAACP title. She is a wife, mother, community leader, and long-time Connecticut public relations advisor and journalist.

Senator Matt Lesser has been Middletown’s favored candidate across racial lines since 2008, when he was elected at age 25 to the Connecticut House of Representatives for the 100th district. He was elected as a Senator in 2019. However, in 2023, he drew a line in the sand, thus changing his longstanding appeal across racial lines.

Matt Lesser’s 2023 “Cinderella–Pumpkin” Moment

Senator Matt Lesser has been a member of the Connecticut Black and Puerto Rican Caucus (BPRC) since 2013. However, his involvement may soon end, not by his own choice.

On June 8, 2023, the State NAACP held a press conference in support of CPrep Middletown, which had bipartisan backing. Later that evening, just before midnight, a Cinderella moment occured and it changed Middletown’s Black community to pumpkins at midnight. Senator Lesser and colleagues pulled out all funding from the school, leaving many students and families without expanded educational opportunities.

On January 14, an online petition initiated by Black parents and community leaders called for his removal from the caucus. The petition was motivated by concerns over Senator Lesser’s last-minute withdrawal of funding for Capital Preparatory Charter School (CPREP), which would have been Middletown’s first charter school.

The funding, initially allocated by the Appropriations Committee in April 2023, included $200,000 for the 2024 school year and $4.75 million for the following year. However, at 11:48 PM on the final day of the session, all funding was abruptly rescinded. Petitioners allege that Senator Lesser and his colleagues withdrew support for the school, negatively impacting the education of Middletown’s most vulnerable children.

Gwen Samuel, the petition’s author, stated that Senator Lesser’s votes have harmed the academic needs of vulnerable children, arguing that he should not be in the caucus if he acts against the interests of Black and Puerto Rican children and families. The NAACP, both statewide and in Middlesex County, strongly denounced the funding cut as racially motivated and as an eleventh-hour effort to restrict educational options for Black and brown children.

Senators Lesser and former Senator Jan Hochadel clearly led the charge to obstruct the school’s progress. Former Senator Hochadel, also the president of the Connecticut American Federation of Teachers (AFT), has publicly opposed charter schools. She had a voting record that pledged to oppose any legislation that would expand charter schools. Senator Lesser has made a similar pledge and has received financial backing from big labor in the past, although he is not a union employee.

The Importance of Informed Voting and Civic Engagement

Voting for a candidate based on emotions or personal relationships, like attending church or cook-outs together, should be a thing of the past. Instead, it is time to support courageous underdog candidates who value your points of view and agree to represent your interests in messy partisan politics.

I am not encouraging you to vote for underdogs simply because they are underdogs, but because they may represent the change needed to improve legislative fiscal oversight, which may lead to safer communities.

The world is evolving; as a result, change deserves a chance. Emotional voting can keep communities stuck with career politicians who prioritize their own agendas, egos, ideologies, and the stereotype that Blacks are victims in need of saving rhetoric, rather than the needs of all constituents.

Becoming informed voters—putting our own needs, those of our families, and our communities first—is especially important during times of ongoing mismanagement, abuse, and waste of tax dollars under a supermajority that leaves many taxpayers behind in certain zip codes and communities. How you vote NOW matters more than ever!

Launching Civic Rise CT: A New Community-Led Initiative

Dr. Amy Chai, A congressional candidate for Congressional District 1, stated during the launch of her campaign on January 22, 2026 - I paraphrase, if you bring a problem to me, offer a solution as well. I am offering a solution.

Stay tuned for the launch of Civic Rise CT, a nonpartisan year-round civic engagement initiative in Connecticut dedicated to increasing participation among low-propensity voters. Voter turnout in local and municipal elections continues to lag, especially in urban centers and surrounding communities, among residents who feel disconnected from the political process. Civic Rise CT aims to focus on civic education, informed voting, and restoring confidence in participation at the local level.

Connecticut’s Identity and Political Habits

Connecticut, often called the Constitution State, has long been known as a land of silos and steady habits. This knowledge should prompt all Connecticut taxpayers and voters to reflect on one critical question: Do these silos and steady habits serve the interests of all taxpayers and voters, or do they create barriers to fairness and progress for some?

My 2024 Campaign Challenges and Lessons Learned

Inspired by New York City’s familiar call to action, “If you see something, say something,” I decided to run as an underdog in the 2024 State Senate race for District 13. My motivation stemmed from both my bucket list and a strong desire to say and do something against our very partisan supermajority government and advocate for sustainable, meaningful change that benefits all taxpayers and voters, not just a select few.

Throughout my campaign, I encountered persistent misinformation and faced numerous obstacles that made it difficult for new voices—like my own and those of other everyday citizens—to be heard. These challenges illustrated the uphill battle that underdog candidates continue to face when running for public office, especially when opposing “career politicians” who have not created clear pathways for future generations to learn how to run effectively for public office, which would help them lead in the decision-making processes on behalf of all future constituents.

The experience of confronting these career “gatekeepers” only strengthened my commitment to support others who aspire to run for public offices and challenge deeply partisan systems.

Advocating for a Balanced Government

As a result of my experiences, I am dedicated to helping other underdog candidates in the 2026 election cycle. My motivation stems from a deep-seated belief in the critical need for a balanced government—one that truly reflects the interests of all taxpayers, not just those favored by the supermajority in power. The current political climate often overlooks the concerns of many hardworking citizens, who are required to pay taxes to a government that lacks transparency and does not encourage true self-governance.

Instead, our current governmental system perpetuates narratives that portray the Black community and other vulnerable populations as victims in need of saving, rather than empowering all able-bodied individuals to embrace the power and importance of self-reliance to help stabilize family foundations, thus protecting children and our elderly populations more effectively.

Historical Context: The Land of Steady Habits

Connecticut’s identity is deeply rooted in tradition, which is reflected in its cautious approach to change. Our state was the last in New England to abolish slavery, not doing so until 1848. This slow path toward emancipation [freedom] raises important questions: Why did Connecticut lag behind its neighbors, and what influence do these legislative traditions have today? The answer lies in the current majority’s tendency to prioritize maintaining existing governmental wants over addressing the pressing hierarchy of needs of taxpayers – business as usual – in the worst way!

Who Drives the Agenda? Traditional Statesmen Versus Movers and Shakers

Upon reflecting on Connecticut’s history, it becomes necessary to ask who truly sets the state’s priorities. Is the current agenda still shaped by the influence of “old money” and longstanding power structures, disguised in a modern framework?

As a member of Generation X, I approach these questions with caution. Traditions can serve valuable purposes, such as supporting the sanctity of marriage and promoting two-parent households for the benefit of children's stability. However, I am concerned that some traditions perpetuate inequality, allowing the “haves” to prosper at the expense of the “have-nots.” This ongoing reflection forces Connecticut citizens to consider how to honor its past while adapting to necessary change, especially in the areas of fairness and representation.

For example:

1833: The “Black Law” is enacted, banning schools for the instruction of African Americans from other states and countries, following legislative efforts led by Andrew Judson. This can be compared to Connecticut’s school residency laws. Before 2013, a parent could face up to 20 years in prison for seeking a free public education for their children outside their neighborhood. This law disproportionately targeted Black, brown, and poor families.

1848: Connecticut enacts final legislation abolishing slavery, making it the last New England state to fully eliminate the institution.

This very brief timeline highlights pivotal moments in Connecticut’s history related to slavery and emancipation [freedom], offering important context for the state’s silos and steady habits that have spilled over into the 21st century.

Old Laws Get Parents Arrested https://dfer.org/2013/02/11/old-law-gets-parents-arrested/

In 2013, my friend, former California lawmaker Gloria Romero, wrote about my parent’ led efforts, via the Connecticut Parents Union, to end felony arrests of parents exercising their right to choose the best educational opportunity to meet their child’s safety and individual learning needs - when their neighborhood school failed to do so. She described how the framework of Connecticut’s 1833 Black Law became embedded in 21st-century public school practices. Fortunately, after a three-year battle, then-Governor Malloy signed a bill into law that stopped the felony arrest of Connecticut parents and provided them with due process. This victory is particularly interesting, considering that the Constitution already guarantees due process under the 14th Amendment.

Silos and Old Money: Examining the Past

Connecticut’s reputation as the last New England state to end slavery challenges the conventional view of the North as a moral leader in freedom. This slower progress raises difficult questions about fairness and equity. Our major political parties have often been volatile and decisive in determining how Connecticut residents are treated and whose voices are amplified in the public political landscape.

Current Challenges and the Supermajority

Today, Connecticut’s legislature is dominated by a supermajority. This concentration of power has significant consequences for taxpayer fairness and limits the diversity of solutions available to address economic challenges. The ongoing influence of old money and ingrained habits threatens to silence new perspectives, new candidates running for public office, and ideas—perspectives that could help shape a more inclusive and economically stable future for Connecticut.

Expanding the Meaning of Diversity

Diversity within Connecticut’s legislature and congressional delegation extends beyond racial representation. While the state has made progress in broadening the range of voices present in both the General Assembly and Congress —such as women, African Americans, Asians, and Hispanics — the conversation about diversity must also address the experiences of women and other underrepresented groups.

Diversity of Thought Matters.

True diversity is not a slogan or a checkbox on a candidate’s application. It is the intentional effort to ensure that all individuals—regardless of gender, background, or political affiliation—have a fair opportunity to participate, lead, and influence public policy. At its core, diversity and representation within public office must center on taxpayers, whose everyday realities should inform the legislative decision-making process rather than be overshadowed by party loyalty or political convenience.

Connecticut’s Congressional Representation: A Brief Overview

Since achieving statehood in 1788, Connecticut has sent nearly 300 individuals to the U.S. Congress over its history - 292 individuals have represented the state, 57 as senators and 259 as representatives, with 24 individuals serving in both the House and Senate chambers. While these representatives have come from varied professional and political backgrounds, the overall composition of Connecticut’s congressional delegation has remained notably limited in terms of gender and racial diversity.

To date, approximately nine women have served Connecticut in the U.S. House of Representatives, beginning with Clare Booth Luce in the 1940s. Notably, Connecticut has never elected a woman to the U.S. Senate. Additionally, only two African Americans—Gary Franks and Jahana Hayes—have represented the state in Congress, both serving in the House.

These figures highlight both progress made and longstanding challenges that remain within congressional races.

Women Candidates in the 2026 Connecticut Congressional Elections

As the 2026 election cycle begins to take shape, women continue to step forward as candidates across Connecticut. According to early filings with the Federal Election Commission (FEC), public reports, and the Center for American Women and Politics, six women seek seats in Congressional Districts 1, 3, and 5.

In District 1, Dr. Amy Chai has entered the race on the Republican ticket and, to the best of publicly available records, is the first woman physician to seek a Connecticut U.S. House seat as a Republican. On the Democratic side, State Representative Jillian Gilchrest and Ruth Fortune, an at-large member of the Hartford Public Schools Board of Education, have also indicated their intent to run.

District 3 remains notable for the historic tenure of Rosa DeLauro, who is widely recognized as the longest-serving woman in Connecticut’s congressional history.

In District 5, Jahana Hayes, Connecticut’s first African American member of Congress, is seeking reelection and is expected to face Republican challenger Michelle Botelho.

Together, these candidacies reflect both meaningful progress and the continued need for broader representation.

All Candidates Are Not Created - or Treated - Equally

Political experience is often described as something gained through repetition, yet in practice, running for public office is an expensive and uneven playing field.

I define a career politician as someone whose primary occupation is running for and maintaining an elected position.

There is a significant difference between supporting a well-established, party-endorsed candidate and stepping forward as a first-time or non-endorsed candidate. My own experience running in the 2024 state senate race for District 13, though unsuccessful, offered firsthand insight into how challenging that distinction can be.

As a non-endorsed candidate, I encountered misinformation, procedural barriers, and resistance that went far beyond policy disagreement. That experience ultimately shaped my decision to pursue political consulting, with a focus on supporting underdog candidates and expanding opportunities for women seeking public office in Connecticut.

The Importance of Balanced Representation

A representative democracy functions best when no single party dominates the decision-making process unchecked. When one party holds a supermajority, decisions risk being shaped from a narrow vantage point, potentially overlooking the concerns of many taxpayers whose lived experiences may differ from those in power.

Balanced representation promotes accountability, debate, and collaboration—ensuring that legislation more accurately reflects the full diversity of Connecticut’s communities.

Non-career candidates face not only fortified political structures but also deeply rooted party ideologies and personalities that can divert attention away from the immediate, everyday challenges facing hard-working taxpayers.

Creating Safe Spaces in Political Arenas

During a recent meeting with a male leader in politics, I experienced firsthand an encounter with the kind of disrespect that many women face when seeking public office. The leader referred to a woman known to both of us as an “attention whore”—a comment that was not only highly inappropriate but also indicative of the dismissive attitudes frequently found in very male-dominated political settings.

Upon reflection, it became clear that the challenges facing women in politics today are even greater than I previously imagined in the 21st century. Such moments of disrespect highlight the substantial barriers that women must overcome to be taken seriously and respected in these spaces.

Ensuring women are respected and represented in public office requires intentional strategies and ongoing advocacy. As more women pursue elected positions, they frequently encounter unique challenges—including navigating entrenched biases and overcoming dismissive attitudes that can undermine their credibility and authority.

Recognizing these obstacles is the first step toward meaningful change. Supporting women candidates means not only encouraging them to run but also fostering a culture in which they are taken seriously, treated with respect, and empowered to lead authentically. This work is essential for building a legislature that truly reflects the diversity and strength of Connecticut’s communities.

Give Change a Chance

Change and evolution are inevitable. My 2024 state senate campaign was built upon the platform “Give Change a Chance,” inspired in part by my research into the history of women in public office. Motivation was drawn from the fact that women currently make up only 37% of the Connecticut legislature, as noted in the CT Mirror resource Charting CT: Women make up only 37% of the CT legislature.

Navigating Expectations

Through my civic education advocacy, close observation of public meetings, and lived experiences, it has become evident that women serving in public office often feel compelled to adopt a persona that is perceived as “harder” or more assertive. This pressure arises from the reality that, in many political environments, louder voices are frequently equated with power and influence. For someone like me—a member of Generation X and raised in a traditional African American background—the notion of being overly assertive is often viewed as disrespectful, being an angry Black woman, or out of alignment with established women's norms of decorum.

Despite these cultural expectations, women in public service face a unique challenge: they must carefully balance the need to be heard and taken seriously with the societal expectation to remain composed and respectful. This balancing act is not only exhausting but also underscores the double standard that persists for women in leadership roles. Navigating these conflicting expectations requires intentionality and resilience, as women strive to assert their voices while maintaining the respect and credibility necessary to lead effectively.

In closing, I thank you for taking the time to read my third Substack post. My name is Gwen Samuel, and I approve this message! Have a safe, family and friend-filled New Year!

Giving Change a Chance

Change often starts in unexpected ways and is driven by everyday people you might not expect to be in the driver’s seat. In Connecticut politics, backing underdog candidates—such as Jamie Vaughn from New Britain, a Republican running in a January 6 special election, as well as independent voters who are no longer trusting the two-party system, or unaffiliated voters who make up the largest voting block—can spark real, transformative solutions. These individuals offer not only different viewpoints but also embody the hopes, dreams, and fears of citizens who feel ignored or sidelined by mainstream politics.

After my first born son passed away in 2021, I formed an exploratory committee to run for District 13 in 2022, but I wasn’t ready mentally and emotionally. By 2024, I ran again without the GOP endorsement, and I found the process confusing, disingenuous, and challenging, to say the least. I missed the primary by four signatures. Determined, I connected with the independent party and thus committed to helping underdog candidates find success.

Underdogs: Who Are They?

Connecticut’s politics are mainly controlled by the majority Democratic and minority Republican parties, and candidacy often depends on party endorsement, according to their rules. I liken it to a knighthood ceremony, and if the scepter lands on your shoulder, you get the royal treatment of support. If not, you may be treated like a lowly peasant. These shenanigans are why we see a growing number of voters stepping away from party affiliations, joining the ranks of the unaffiliated, and expressing their desire for candidates who represent their values rather than party platforms. Independent candidates, as well as GOP members in districts where their party is the minority, often face an uphill battle simply to be heard and respected. These individuals are not just campaigning for public office—they are challenging the current political landscape and striving to give a voice to those who feel their concerns have been silenced.

Why Supporting Underdogs Matters

Supporting underdogs in politics is more than a symbolic gesture; it is an act of resistance, empowerment, and hope. These candidates often lack the financial backing, media coverage, and institutional support that major party nominees enjoy. By lending support—through volunteering, donations, or simply amplifying their message—voters can help level the playing field. This support enables underdog candidates to participate in debates, reach constituents, and share their vision for the future of Connecticut.

The Largest Voting Block: The Unaffiliated

One of the most significant shifts in Connecticut politics is the rise of the unaffiliated voter. No longer satisfied with any party, this group now represents the largest voting bloc in the state. Their willingness to vote reflects a desire for fresh ideas, diverse thought leaders, and genuine representation, rather than allegiance to party lines, egos, and ideologies. Underdog candidates, especially independents, appeal to these voters by offering real talk in real-time solutions and a commitment to putting people over politics.

David and Goliath: A Timeless Lesson

The age-old biblical story of David and Goliath resonates in the context of political underdogs. David, a young shepherd boy armed only with a slingshot and a rock, defeats the giant Goliath—a feat that seemed impossible. The story endures the test of time because it speaks to a universal human instinct: the desire to see the seemingly powerless overcome the powerful. Just as David’s courage inspired his people, underdog candidates inspire hope for change, the courage to change, and encourage fair treatment in the political arena.

NOW Matters More Than Ever

Supporting underdogs in Connecticut politics is not merely rooting for the unlikely winner. It is about investing in and protecting democracy, fostering a “One Connecticut” mentality, and championing the right of every citizen to be heard. Whether you are a member of a minority party, an independent, or one of the many unaffiliated voters who are “done” with politics and business as usual, your support for underdogs can help shape a more responsive, innovative, and accountable government. It is time to give Change a Chance.

In closing, my name is Gwen Samuel, and I approve this message!

Giving Credit Where It Is Due

The Word of God teaches us to give credit where it is due. As someone who is now an Independent and cares deeply about my grandchildren’s future, I am STILL so proud of Republican George Logan for his courageous run as a former congressional candidate in a challenging supermajority political landscape.

Historically, Republican candidates in Connecticut have generally won elections by doing well in suburban and rural areas while gaining some support from voters in urban cities and densely populated suburbs. In this context, densely populated suburban areas refer to neighborhoods located near the borders of urban towns.

This pattern reveals a consistent challenge for Republicans in gaining widespread appeal across the state, particularly in urban centers where historically Democratic candidates typically have stronger bases of support, and this has presented significant obstacles for Republican candidates seeking federal office.

Notably, the last Republican to hold a U.S. House seat from Connecticut was former Representative Chris Shays, who lost his seat in 2008. This defeat marked the end of a Republican presence in the state’s congressional delegation.

Furthermore, Republican representation in the U.S. Senate has been absent since 1982, when Senator Lowell Weicker was reelected. These electoral outcomes underscore the uphill battle faced by Republican candidates in Connecticut’s current political climate.

Given these long-standing challenges, it is imperative for Republicans in Connecticut to come together and engage in a candid and strategic “family meeting.” This approach is essential if the party is to transition from being a “silent minority”—often relegated to a reactive stance against a dominant blue supermajority—to becoming the people’s majority, even while labeled as a minority party. Moving forward, the focus must shift from responding to political clichés and sound bites to truly listening to and representing the will of “we the people” – not just “some of the people”. Only through unity, reflection, and a renewed commitment to the concerns of all Connecticut residents can the Republican Party hope to broaden its appeal and achieve greater electoral success.

The George Logan Effect: Leading By Example

I know George Logan to be a committed husband, loving father of two amazing children, an accomplished business leader, a respected community role model, and a former member of the Connecticut General Assembly African American Affairs Commission.

Logan distinguished himself as the first Black Republican elected to the Connecticut State Senate. He commenced his public service career representing the 17th district in the Connecticut State Senate. His 2016 election was particularly noteworthy, as he succeeded in unseating Joseph Crisco Jr., a Democratic incumbent who had served for 24 years. This milestone represented a notable development in the state’s political landscape.

The George Logan Effect – An Underdog’s Campaign

On July 21, 2021, George Logan publicly announced his candidacy for the 2022 United States House of Representatives elections in Connecticut. Despite being viewed as a long shot, Logan ultimately came within less than one percentage point of victory, losing to the Democratic incumbent Jahana Hayes by a mere 2,004 votes out of a total of 253,672 cast. If the margin had been under 1,250 votes, an automatic recount would have occurred, highlighting just how close the race was and the significant impact of Logan’s campaign.

Connecticut witnessed the remarkable campaign of an underdog candidate who was initially considered to have no realistic chance of even sharing a debate stage with the Democratic incumbent, Jahana Hayes. Defying expectations, George Logan made history as the only Congressional candidate to have come within less than one percentage point of victory since Shays lost his seat in 2008.

The 2022 race was particularly significant as it marked the first time in Connecticut’s history that two Black candidates from major political parties competed for a congressional seat.

George Logan, whose background includes being the son of immigrants from Guatemala, serving as a community relations director at a water company, and performing as a guitarist in a Jimi Hendrix tribute band, brought a unique profile to the campaign. In my opinion, he positioned himself as a social moderate and a fiscal conservative, pledging to vote against GOP leadership when he believed it was necessary. This stance was intended to appeal to a broad base of voters by demonstrating independence and a willingness to prioritize his constituents’ interests over party lines.

Logan’s strategy marked a significant shift in Connecticut’s political landscape. He demonstrated that meaningful outreach to all voters, whether they agree with you or not, can drive historic change, regardless of prevailing public opinion. By prioritizing the everyday taxpayer and voter’s conversations about community concerns, Logan’s campaign illustrated the potential for broader Republican appeal and success in areas that have traditionally been Democratic territory.

Insights from a Community Organizer

With more than fifteen years of experience as a community organizer and a track record of leading initiatives that led to the enactment of significant parent empowerment legislation, I have learned that successful advocacy often involves engaging and persuading those with opposing viewpoints. This approach is particularly valuable for Connecticut candidates who face pronounced polarization and partisanship.

As an independent thinker with conservative values, I had hoped the party would draw important lessons from Logan’s historic campaign—BEFORE I ran for State Senate in 2024 as a Republican - particularly his approach to engaging the often-overlooked voters within urban communities. These individuals, frequently described as “invisible,” are not truly unseen; rather, they have long awaited candidates who are willing to simply listen and speak with them about issues that matter, not just during election season but throughout the year.

George’s campaign marked a key shift for the Connecticut GOP, showing its ability to drive change in both the party and state politics.

2026 Impact: Why Reflecting Matters

With the 2026 campaign season on the horizon, it’s important to look back at past elections, even those from three years ago. Taking time to reflect on what happened in previous races can give candidates and campaign teams fresh insights for future elections. By studying past results, they can spot trends and strategies that might prove useful moving forward.

Letting Go of the Blame Game

It’s common to dwell on the mistakes made during old campaigns or point fingers about what went wrong. However, this approach does little to help improve future performance. Instead, adopting a mindset focused on growth and learning is crucial. For the Connecticut GOP, this means seeing past experiences not as failures, but as valuable chances to make progress and drive meaningful change.

This blog is titled the “George Logan Effect” to highlight how his 2022 strategy offers the Connecticut GOP a framework for converting close competitive races into victories. By doing so, it aims to contribute to a more balanced distribution of decision-making authority among elected officials, ensuring that no Connecticut taxpayer, regardless of political affiliation, is left behind.