HARTFORD, Conn. — The state Senate Minority Leader stepped down from his position on Friday and his replacement was already announced.
Sen. Kevin Kelly, (R-Stratford), stepped down from the leadership role that he has held since 2020. The Republican caucus voted to name Sen. Stephen Harding, (R-Brookfield) as the new leader.
“I’ve been incredibly honored to serve as the leader of this caucus and will work collaboratively with Sen. Harding going forward,” Kelly said in a statement. “Our caucus is made up of hard-working individuals who love our state and are ready to fight for it. Together we continue to stand up for policies that make our state more affordable for all people by reducing tax burdens on poor, working- and middle-class families, creating opportunities in education and jobs, and increasing health care access and affordability.”
He said Harding will be an “excellent” Senate Republican Leader. A spokesperson for Kelly told FOX61 News he would not be taking up any other leadership roles within the caucus.
The caucus vote came less than a week into the new legislative session.
In a statement, Harding said he was “honored” to be chosen by the Republican caucus to succeed Kelly as leader.
“Sen. Kelly has served our caucus tirelessly for more than three years. As leader, I will make sure our caucus remains unified and focused on standing up for all people, offering solutions and showing a better path forward,” Harding said. “From strengthening public safety, environmental, education, and health care policies to preserving fiscal discipline, we will work to give residents the stability and predictability they deserve. I thank Sen. Kelly for his leadership and look forward to the challenges ahead.”
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Harding, an attorney, was elected to the 30th District Senate seat in 2023 after four terms serving as a state representative for the people of the 107th House District.
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