State Representative Brian O'Connor (D-Clinton, Killingworth, Westbrook) announced May 18 that he will not seek re-election this fall. In his announcement, Rep. O'Connor thanked the constituents of the 35th Assembly District for giving him the opportunity to serve as their state legislator, saying that his time in office has been rewarding and overwhelmingly positive.

"For the past 10 years I have had the incredible honor to represent the people and towns of Clinton, Killingworth, and Westbrook and, in my first term, Old Saybrook and Essex. It is a position that I will always be grateful and humbled to have had the opportunity to have held," O'Connor said. "After lots of reflection and discussions with my family, I have decided not to seek re-election in November. Together, my family and I came to the difficult decision that it is time for us to start a new chapter that will allow us more time to explore other opportunities, tackle new challenges, and to devote more time to each other."

O'Connor holds the title of deputy speaker, a role in which he has been responsible for presiding over the House of Representatives during legislative sessions and for leading the majority party in its agenda. He was first elected as state representative in November 2000.

He said, "I want to thank the people of my district who have put their faith and confidence in me to serve and give them my deepest gratitude. In particular, the best part of the job has been meeting with the people of the district, discussing issues with them and working to try to translate their beliefs and values into the decisions I make in Hartford. The friendships I have cultivated, the history I have learned, and the events that I attended will certainly transcend my time in office. It has been an enormously great and rewarding experience that I will always cherish."

Previously, O'Connor served as co-chairman of the Insurance and Real Estate Committee, where he said he was proud to have authored and crafted many pieces of significant legislation.

"I also want to thank my wife Taren, my son Nolan, and my family and friends for their continued support and for understanding the many challenges and responsibilities of my legislative duties, and for giving me the time and opportunity to perform them," he said.

Press release from State Representative Brian O'Connor