Race for Fazio's Greenwich Senate Seat Intensifies
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CT Senator Ryan Fazio’s decision to run for governor has opened one of Connecticut’s most closely watched legislative seats, setting the stage for a competitive race in the 36th State Senate District. For the past several years, Fazio has represented Greenwich, New Canaan, and portions of Stamford in Hartford, building a profile as a Republican focused on affordability, energy costs, and fiscal discipline.
Republican Favorite. Republicans are expected to rally behind Joe Kelly, CEO of Uranium Markets, former GHS rugby coach, once Chair of the Board of Ed, and current Board of Estimate and Taxation (BET) member. Known for his "happy warrior" style and ability to bridge political divides, Kelly’s entry into the race signals a desire to maintain the seat’s focus on fiscal responsibility and ensuring the state "lives within its means."
Democrat Battle. Two formidable Democratic Party candidates have stepped forward, likely leading to a high-stakes primary.
Jill Oberlander, an attorney and veteran of local government, brings a massive resume to the table. Having served as Chair of the BET and on the Board of Selectmen, she is known for her mastery of municipal finance and her "Four E’s" platform: Environment, Education, Economy, and Equity.
This week, Janet Stone McGuigan officially entered the race. Having served on the Board of Selectmen through 2025, McGuigan is leaning into her reputation as a pragmatic moderate. With a background in civil engineering and public policy, she currently co-chairs the Sustainability Committee and is a member of the Julian Curtiss School Building Committee and the RTM (Representative Town Meeting). She has a history of winning support from across the aisle.
Seat History. The 36th District has become the "purple" heart of Connecticut politics. The seat was held for five terms by Republican Scott Frantz until 2018, when Democrat Alex Kasser flipped it blue for the first time in nearly a century. After Kasser’s 2021 resignation, Ryan Fazio reclaimed the seat for the GOP in a special election and successfully defended it against challengers Trevor Crow (2022) and Nick Simmons (2024).
Between the Lines: With Fazio moving toward a statewide run, the 36th is once again a toss-up. Voters will soon have to decide: do they prefer Kelly’s "happy warrior" brand of fiscal restraint, or a Democratic platform that prioritizes environmental sustainability and a modernized education system?