Berlin PD Union Sides With GOP State Senate Challenger

BERLIN, CT — The union representing officers in the Berlin Police Department announced Sunday it is endorsing the GOP challenger for the 6th State Senate race.

The union said in a statement that it is endorsing Republican Tremell Collins in the race, which according to the union, is the first union endorsement of a political hopeful in about a decade.

Collins is challenging incumbent state Rep. Rick Lopes, D-New Britain, in November for the district's Senate seat, a rematch from 2022, when Lopes defeated Collins.

The 6th Senate serves New Britain, Berlin, and part of Farmington.

The BPD union cited Collins' role as a civilian advisor for the New Britain Police Explorers, claiming he has "consistently supported pro-law enforcement and common-sense criminal reform policies during his tenure as an alderman for the City of New Britain."

Collins, according to the BPD union, welcomed the endorsement.

“I am honored to be endorsed by the Berlin Police Union. Their decision to engage in this critical race for the first time in many years highlights the importance of this election and the lack of accountability from our current state senator," Collins said in a BPD statement.

"As your next State Senator, I promise to be an advocate for our police and law enforcement in the state Senate, ensuring they are well-equipped and supported in their daily work for us. Thank you to the Berlin Police Union for placing their trust in me, just as I place trust in them.”

From May 15: 'Collins' GOP Nod Sets Up Rematch For 6th Senate'