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Connecticut Democrats scored sweeping gains in state legislative races, potentially flipping eight Senate seats and nine House seats, which would leave Republicans with as few as three state senators. Senate Minority Leader Stephen Harding lost his seat, with Henri Martin, Eric Berthel, and Rob Sampson the only Republicans remaining in that chamber. House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora called the outcome a "worst case scenario," citing lost tight races and diminished policy balance in Hartford. Governor Ned Lamont, re-elected to a third term, said Senate Republicans had been uncooperative. Candelora expressed hope for a rebound once Donald Trump is no longer a factor in future elections.

Connecticut Republicans are pushing to suspend the state's 25-cent gas tax through the end of the year as gas prices average $4.45 a gallon, up significantly from a year ago. The move requires Gov. Ned Lamont to call an immediate special session, but Lamont has resisted, saying lawmakers must first specify how to replace the lost revenue used to rebuild roads and bridges.

Suspending the gas and diesel taxes would cost the state roughly $128 million. Republicans, including state Sen. Paul Cicarella, argue the state's Special Transportation Fund holds nearly $650 million in reserves and surplus, enough to absorb the loss, and estimate the suspension would save drivers about $3 per fill-up. Lamont noted he supported a one-month suspension in the spring when gas was cheaper, but that plan never materialized after lawmakers opted to direct funds elsewhere, including education. Republicans say continued public pressure could still force a special session as drivers express frustration over rising prices at the pump.

West Haven, Connecticut has enacted a new ordinance requiring city departments — including schools, firehouses, and other municipal offices — to donate excess food rather than discard it. Officials say the measure aims to curb food waste while addressing rising demand for food assistance across the state.

WHEAT Inc., a food pantry that has served the West Haven area for more than 50 years and distributes over 300,000 pounds of food annually, is expected to be a primary recipient of the donated food, along with organizations like First Congregational Church, which prepares hot meals using leftover ingredients. Mayor Dorinda Borer said certified kitchens can now funnel surplus food directly to the pantry rather than sending it to landfills. The city's Food Policy Council will coordinate logistics to ensure donations reach organizations in need, as officials cite a sharp recent increase in food insecurity across Connecticut.