AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Connecticut’s state primary
Summary
Connecticut will hold state primaries featuring Democratic Governor Ned Lamont and longtime U.S. Representative John Larson facing strong primary challenges. These races reflect a broader Democratic effort to bring in younger, more progressive candidates ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.Key Facts
- Governor Ned Lamont is running for a third term and faces a challenge from state Rep. Josh Elliott.
- Lamont has spent $9.5 million of his own money on his campaign, while Elliott raised nearly $400,000 from donors and $3.8 million from public funding.
- If Elliott wins, it would continue a trend of progressive challengers defeating Democratic incumbents in recent primaries.
- U.S. Rep. John Larson is seeking a 15th term and faces three Democrats: former Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin, Ruth Fortune, and Jillian Gilchrest.
- Larson has never faced a primary challenge since 1998 but turned 78 and suffered a health episode in 2025 related to a heart condition.
- The 1st Congressional District is heavily Democratic; Larson won 63% of the vote in 2024.
- All 36 state Senate seats and all 151 state House seats will be contested in 2026, with Democrats holding large majorities.
- Only registered party members can vote in their party’s primary; independents cannot vote in either party’s primary.
- Polls close at 8 p.m. Eastern Time on primary day.
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