Connecticut Senate Democrats secure 25-seat majority with Winfield selection
The 33-member caucus elected Gary Winfield as majority leader and Bob Duff as president pro tempore following a shift in the chamber's balance.
By Michael Bennett ·
Senate Democrats in Connecticut chose Gary Winfield as their majority leader on Thursday, marking the first time a Black senator has held that position in the state. The 33-member caucus also selected Bob Duff of Norwalk to serve as Senate president pro tempore, the role that controls the legislative agenda.
Duff will succeed Martin Looney of New Haven, who is retiring after a long tenure in the role. In a joint statement, Duff and Winfield expressed gratitude for the trust placed in them by their colleagues and the voters. They emphasized a commitment to making the state more affordable and protecting residents' rights.
The Democrats now hold a 25-11 majority in the Senate, the largest bloc in the chamber's history. This total potentially includes eight seats gained in the recent election, pending a final recount in the 34th District. That district covers parts of North Haven, Wallingford, and other towns in Fairfield County.
A recount is underway in the 34th District due to a narrow margin between Republican incumbent Paul Cicarella and Democratic challenger Brandi Mandato. According to the secretary of the state, Mandato leads Cicarella by 25 votes, with 19,448 ballots cast against 19,423. Senate Republicans will wait for the final results before choosing their own leadership.
Winfield, who has served in the Senate since 2014, previously represented a New Haven district in the House. He said he intends to focus on social and economic justice issues, specifically addressing rising costs for healthcare and housing. He noted that he wants his legacy defined by legislative action rather than political messaging.
Winfield currently co-chairs the Judiciary Committee, which handles the drafting of state laws. The previous largest Democratic majority in the Senate was 29-7, achieved during the 1975 and 1976 sessions as well as in 1959. The new leadership team will begin their terms soon as the General Assembly prepares for its next session.
