Connecticut State Senate District 31

Current seat holder: Henri Martin (R).

Laurel LaPorte-Grimes

Laurel LaPorte-Grimes District 31 covers parts of Hartford, Litchfield Counties. Laurel LaPorte-Grimes earned a high school diploma from Rickards High School, an associate degree from Tallahassee Community College in 1986, a bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland in 1989, and a graduate degree from the University of Connecticut in 2001. Her career experience includes working as a researcher.

Campaign site

“Throughout my career as a program developer, evaluator, community organizer, and advocate, I have brought people together to solve complex problems. I've learned that the best solutions come from listening first, understanding people's experiences, and working across differences to create meaningful change.” (Candidate statement)
“That's exactly how I intend to serve the 31st District. As your senator, I will work to bring resources back to our district, lower the everyday costs families face, and ensure that our communities have a strong voice at the table in Hartford.” (Candidate statement)
“Thank you for your support, encouragement, and friendship. I'm excited about the opportunity to serve our communities, and I hope you'll join me in this effort.” (Candidate statement)

Henri Martin

Henri Martin is the incumbent Republican member of the Connecticut State Senate representing District 31, running for re-election on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot. District 31 covers parts of Hartford, Litchfield Counties. Henri Martin graduated from St. Anselm College and attended classes at the University of Hartford. Martin's career experience includes owning two small businesses, serving two terms on the Bristol city council, and being appointed as acting mayor in 2013. While in Bristol city government, Martin served as chairman of the Salary Committee, chairman of the Building Committee and chairman of the Bristol Public Work Committee. He has been liaison to the Bristol Board of Education, Bristol Downtown Development Committee, and Bristol/Burlington Health District. He has also been a member of Bristol's 10-Year Capital Improvement Committee and Public Works Board. In 2019, Martin was named the Motor Transport Association of Connecticut State Senator of the Year and named a "Plainville Community Hero" by the Plainville Community Schools.

Campaign site

“Together, we will forge a Connecticut where every voice is heard and every dream is possible. Let's build a brighter future, ensuring that our state is a nurturing home where all can thrive and flourish.” (Candidate statement)
“Here we are, on April Fool's Day, and what have Democrats done to lower your taxes, your electricity bills, your grocery bills or your insurance bills? Nothing. Connecticut families aren't laughing. Their budgets are being crushed. Meanwhile, Democrats continue pushing policies to make Connecticut more unaffordable . Democrats at the State Capitol will endlessly blame Washington DC, because they know they own Connecticut's affordability crisis.” (Candidate statement)