Press Release, 86th District Republicans

House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora has been unanimously endorsed by 86th District Republicans another two-year term as state representative for residents of Durham, East Haven, Guilford, and North Branford.

"It’s an incredible honor to serve in Connecticut's legislature as the voice of the residents of these communities,” Candelora said. “The trust and confidence people place in me continues to be inspiring, and I look forward to tackling issues important to my constituents as I work to make our state more affordable for everyone.”

Candelora was endorsed May 16 during a district convention held at Stewards of the Land Brewery in Northford, where Republicans from the four towns gathered.

Candelora has been a pivotal figure in championing fiscal responsibility, ensuring affordability, and enhancing public safety across the state. In 2023, he led the effort to insert Republican tax relief proposals into the two-year state budget, including an income tax cut for working class residents and an expansion of tax relief for retirees.

During the 2024 legislative session, Candelora was a staunch protector of the fiscal guardrails that have allowed the state to build back its budget reserve fund while also beginning to put money toward $80 billion in debt and unfunded pension liabilities.

Candelora has led the charge in advocating for stronger public safety measures, supporting our law enforcement officers, and ensuring our communities remain safe and secure as crime throughout Connecticut grows more brazen.

Candelora, who was chosen unanimously as Minority Leader by his House Republican colleagues in 2020, was elected to his ninth term in 2022. Aside from serving as a state representative, Candelora’s long record of civic involvement includes three terms on North Branford’s Town Council and leadership roles in the town’s Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club. Outside of the legislature, Candelora helps run two family-owned businesses—a manufacturing company and a sportsplex.