Candidate Profile: Josh Elliott, 88th State House District

HAMDEN, CT — The 2026 election is heating up in Connecticut, and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Eyes are primarily focused on the Connecticut gubernatorial election, but every state representative and senate seat is up for grabs. All five of Connecticut's congressional seats are up for grabs as well.

There are 151 seats in the state House of Representatives and 36 in the state Senate. Democrats currently hold majorities in both chambers.

Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Josh Elliott, 41, of Hamden, is running for re-election to the House of Representatives in the 88th District, representing Hamden.

Party:

Democrat

Occupation:

Business owner

Does anyone in your family work in government?

No

Previous public office:

5 term incumbent

Why are you seeking this office?

Because our tax system is backwards, asking more of those who are struggling than the wealthy.

What do you believe is the No. 1 issue facing Connecticut, and how do you plan to address it?

Affordability. We need to be heavily reinvesting back in our municipalities that only have the property tax as a tool to raise revenue.

Energy costs have been soaring in Connecticut. What are your plans to help address this issue?

We need a public option for power distribution.

Affordability has been a major topic across the country and here in Connecticut. How do you plan to address this issue?

See above.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have worked my way into leadership having Chaired the Higher Education Committee and now serving as Deputy Speaker, Caucus Co-Chair, and Screening Chair.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I remain committed to a fair and just economic, environmental, and legal system.