Kissel, Mangini May Square Off In 7th Senatorial District Rematch

ENFIELD-NORTHERN CT — Since unexpectedly winning a special election in 1993 following the sudden resignation of longtime 7th District State Senator Con O'Leary, John Kissel has successfully campaigned to retain that seat 15 more times. Several elections have been quite close, while others have been landslides, including a margin of 70 percent to 30 percent in 2014. In fact, after he cruised to victory by wide margins in both 1996 and 1998, Democrats did not even put up an opponent in 2000.

On three occasions since 2004, Kissel has faced challengers in back-to-back elections, narrowly defeating Bill Kiner in 2004 and 2006, and Karen Jarmoc in 2010 and 2012. He had considerably more breathing room in his wins over Annie Hornish in 2016 and 2018. He was unanimously endorsed to seek a 17th term at a recent Republican convention.

"I have tremendous gratitude for the opportunity to represent the 7th Senate District for another term," Kissel said in a written statement. "My passion for public service and the people of this great state reinforces my commitment to protecting residents from tax increases, unfunded mandates, and legislation that could lead to a decrease in public safety. I am excited to listen to the concerns of my constituents so that I can best represent them in Hartford. I hope to continue to be the voice of the 7th Senate District, bringing policy to Hartford that promotes economic development, supports law enforcement, and sets future generations up for success."

This fall, Kissel may face a second-time challenger for the fourth time in Cindy Mangini, a longtime member of the Enfield Town Council. At a convention Tuesday, Mangini was endorsed by Democratic delegates, staving off a challenge from newcomer Nathan Wolliston.

Wolliston plans to wage a primary.

The 7th District encompasses Enfield, Suffield, Windsor Locks, East Granby, Somers and parts of Granby and Windsor.

"Our district needs a state Senator who does more than just raise his hand every so often during attendance," Mangini said. "We need someone who will stand up for us, someone who will fight for the middle class, and ensure that our children, seniors, families and small businesses are getting the support they deserve. It’s time residents had a Senator who returns calls, writes back and who will bring money and appropriate funding back to our district. After 30 years of the failure to pass even one bill, we deserve a Senator who can deliver."

Election Day is Nov. 5.