Early voting for the 2026 general election starts Monday, offering New Haven voters two weeks to cast their ballots at City Hall or Southern Connecticut State University before heading to their neighborhood polling places on Nov. 3. This early‑voting window gives residents a convenient chance to hear directly from the candidates whose names will appear on the ballot.
Congressional race
Long‑time incumbent Rep. Rosa DeLauro is seeking her 19th two‑year term representing Connecticut’s 3rd U.S. Congressional District. DeLauro argues that her seniority and expected return to the House Appropriations chairmanship will benefit the district and push back against policies of the Trump administration.
Challenging her are Republican Christopher Lancia, Independent Party candidate Tom Egan and write‑in candidate Andrew Rice. Lancia positions himself as a conservative alternative, promising new ideas for the district.
Statewide offices
Incumbent Democrat William Tong for Attorney General faces Republican challenger John Bolton. Their primary disagreement centers on Tong’s lawsuits against the Trump administration.
Democratic Comptroller Erick Russell of New Haven is running against Republican banker Fred Wilms. The race includes debate over the office’s record on investment returns and whether recent gains signal a turnaround after years of underperformance.
State Treasurer Sean Scanlon seeks another term, emphasizing continued expansion of health‑care coverage. Republican challenger Jen Tooker argues she can serve as a more independent watchdog on state spending.
Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas is running for a second term, highlighting her work improving election administration amid national turmoil. Republican Peter Lumaj missed two scheduled interview opportunities.
Governor Ned Lamont is a self‑funding Democrat seeking a third term. His Republican opponent Ryan Fazio calls for a tax on Yale University. Lamont declined many interview requests but appeared on La Voz Radio’s “K‑PASA” program in July. Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz also addressed voters in a separate “Dateline” interview.
State legislative races
Most incumbent Democratic state legislators in New Haven run unopposed. Two notable contests are:
- Socialist Rosa Pepper‑Macias versus Democrat Al Paolillo for the open 11th State Senate District seat on the east side.
- Democrat Wildaliz Bermudez, who previously defeated fellow Democrat Leland Moore in a primary, faces Republican Anthony Acri for the same seat.
How to learn more
All candidates appeared on WNHH FM’s “Dateline New Haven” program for in‑depth, one‑on‑one conversations. The station posted video interviews and links to articles about each candidate, giving voters a non‑advertising source of information before they head to the polls.
For early‑voting locations, hours and polling‑place details, visit the City of New Haven website or the official state election portal. Remember, your vote shapes representation from the local city council to the U.S. Congress, and early voting makes it easier to participate.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
