I'm Leading on Protecting Elections in CT

March 6, 2026

Free and fair elections are the foundation of our democracy, and they are under attack from the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans. Donald Trump himself has said he wants Republicans to "nationalize" and "take over" our elections, and Trump and Republicans have advanced legislation that would disenfranchise vast swaths of valid American voters. Trump targeted us here in Connecticut. We're not going to let that happen here.

In my capacity as Co-Chair of the Government Administration & Elections Committee (GAE), I've authored legislation to prevent the Trump administration – or anyone else  – from interfering in our elections or intimidating voters. 
Explaining how states have a duty to protect our voters and election workers

Protecting Voters From Potential Federal Presence

I am proud to co-introduce House Bill 5533, a measure designed to prevent voter intimidation and ensure people feel safe going to vote without the presence of armed federal agents or immigration enforcement nearby.

The proposal would:

  • Bar federal law enforcement within 250 feet of a polling place without permission from state election officials or a court order
  • Require coordination with the Connecticut Secretary of the State and the Attorney General before federal agents conduct operations near a polling place
  • Establish state penalties for violations to ensure protections are taken seriously

Expanding Absentee Ballot Voting

I'm also advocating for legislation to implement Absentee Voting For All in Connecticut after voters overwhelmingly approved a constitutional amendment in 2024. This proposal would allow any eligible voter to request an absentee ballot without providing a reason, beginning later this year. Expanding absentee voting won't just expand access and comply with that constitutional mandate — it will ensure every person can cast their ballot without reasonable fear.

Currently, absentee ballots are limited to voters who meet specific criteria. Removing those restrictions will make voting more accessible, increase participation, and ensure voters have safe and flexible options for casting their ballots.

Cracking Down on Bogus Artificial Intelligence

Additionally, I authored House Bill 5342, which addresses a growing threat to elections: AI-generated “deepfake” videos, images, and audio used to spread misinformation about candidates. The bill would:

  • Prohibit deceptive AI-generated media intended to influence an election
  • Apply to manipulated videos, audio, or images that falsely depict a candidate
  • Covers the 90 days leading up to an election or primary, when misinformation can have the biggest impact.

As technology evolves, it is critical that our laws keep pace to protect voters from manipulation and ensure that campaigns are conducted fairly.

The GAE will hold a public hearing on some these proposals at 12 p.m. on Friday, March 13. You can participate in the legislative process and share your thoughts by:

You can make your voice heard and help shape the laws that affect our elections.