Joe Kelly Launches Campaign For 36th State Senate District

GREENWICH, CT — Current Greenwich Board of Estimate and Taxation member Joe Kelly, a Republican, has launched a campaign to run for state senator in the 36th District, which covers all of Greenwich, and portions of Stamford and New Canaan.

Kelly, a longtime resident, former Greenwich High School rugby coach and member of the Board of Education, and a current member of the Board of Estimate and Taxation, said in an announcement that his campaign will focus on "restoring a tone of civility and cooperation in public life while advancing the fiscal discipline and community-first approach that has defined his public service."

"Public service should bring people together to solve problems," Kelly said in an announcement. "Too often politics divides neighbors who share the same goals. I believe we can disagree without being disagreeable, and we can work with everyone who truly wants to represent all the people, not just some of the people."

The 36th State Senate District will be vacated since state Sen. Ryan Fazio, also a Republican, is challenging Gov. Ned Lamont in the gubernatorial race.

Kelly noted his campaign message focuses on constructive dialogue, fiscal responsibility, "and a belief that government works best when leaders focus on solving problems rather than scoring political points," priorities he says are closely aligned with the work Fazio has done in the areas of affordability, responsible budgeting, transparency and "thoughtful policymaking."

"Ryan Fazio has been a strong advocate for affordability and responsible, transparent government," Kelly added. "Those priorities are important to families across the 36th District. If elected, I will continue working to ensure Connecticut lives within its means while strengthening the communities we call home."

As a member of the Board of Education, Kelly served as the liaison to the Cardinal Stadium project and helped bring the plans to fruition.

The project replaced aging bleachers, added modern facilities, and reopened in 2021.

"During his tenure on the Board of Education, Kelly worked to foster transparency, improve accountability, and encourage a governing style focused on solutions rather than partisanship," his campaign announcement said. "He has also served the town as a youth mentor and coach, most notably leading the Greenwich High School rugby program to nine championships in just ten years while mentoring generations of students and athletes"

He was elected to the BET last November as part of a new wave of members on the powerful finance board.

"The 36th District includes people with different viewpoints and experiences," Kelly said. "But we all want strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and a government that respects taxpayers and works responsibly on their behalf."

First Selectman Fred Camillo lauded Kelly's accomplishments and threw his support behind his camaign.

"As we turn our attention towards the November elections, here in Greenwich, I am proud to support one of Greenwich’s biggest champions, and most active volunteers, Joe Kelly," Camillo said. "Whether on the athletic fields, or the halls of local government, Joe can always be counted on to be front and center when duty calls."

Camillo spoke of Kelly's leadership, and said he "follows in the tradition of the 'happy warrior.'"

"Joe will make a great state senator and follow in the footsteps of such noted Greenwich legends as Michael Morano, Benny Benvenuto, Bill Nickerson, Scott Frantz, and Ryan Fazio," Camillo added.

"Just as important, he serves with a smile and eagerness that is very much welcome in an age where obstruction and division seems to be the preferred method for many who seek office."

Kelly said additional campaign details will be announced in the coming weeks.

The election is slated for Nov. 3.