STRATFORD, CT – Tony Afriyie announced his candidacy for Connecticut’s 21st State Senatorial District seat after receiving the enthusiastic endorsement of delegates from the Democratic town committees of Shelton, Monroe and Stratford, according to a press release issued Thursday night. Afriyie says he is ready to bring fresh energy and bold solutions to Hartford.
The Stratford town councilman will face State Rep. Jason Perillo, R-Shelton, in a special election to be held Tuesday, Feb. 25, to fill the vacancy created by Republican, Kevin Kelly’s resignation.
“I am deeply honored to have the support of so many people across this district,” said Afriyie. “Their trust inspires me to fight for the values we share: strengthening our communities, creating good-paying jobs, and ensuring every family has a fair shot at success.”
Afriyie’s campaign will focus on reducing the cost of living, ensuring Connecticut’s workforce is prepared for high-demand careers, and investing in education, infrastructure and local businesses.
A proud product of public education and a seasoned community leader, Afriyie understands the challenges facing Connecticut families, the news release said.
“This is our opportunity to come together and build a fairer future led by a new generation,” Afriyie said. “Together, we can turn vision into victory and progress into action. I’m running to deliver real solutions — whether it’s supporting small businesses, or ensuring our schools and infrastructure meet the needs of every resident.”
The 21st State Senatorial District includes Shelton and parts of Seymour, Monroe, and Stratford.
About Tony Afriyie
Afriyie is described as a dedicated advocate for Connecticut’s working families. On the Stratford Town Council, he has a proven record of bipartisan leadership and community service, according to the press release.
Afriyie said he is committed to making government work for the people and ensuring that every family has the opportunity to thrive.
Born in the Bronx, N.Y., and raised in Stratford, Afriyie is a first-generation American with roots in Ghana, West Africa. Guided by the values of hard work and community instilled by his immigrant parents, Afriyie has dedicated his life to public service.
A graduate of Western Connecticut State University with a degree in political science, Afriyie recently completed his Master’s degree in public administration, specializing in urban development and sustainability, at Baruch College’s Marxe School of Public and International Affairs.
After graduating during the pandemic, Afriyie served with AmeriCorps NCCC, contributing to disaster recovery, conservation efforts, and urban development across states like Colorado, Louisiana, and Missouri. Working alongside organizations like the National Guard and the Red Cross, he witnessed the power of collaboration and community resilience.
Afriyie’s professional journey has been shaped by diverse and impactful roles. He has interned with the city of Bridgeport Small Minority and Women Business Enterprise, former Secretary of the State Denise Merrill, the Connecticut General Assembly, and worked for prominent leaders in Congress, including U.S. representatives John B. Larson and Rosa DeLauro.
Currently, Afriyie serves as a Congressional staffer, bringing his dedication, empathy, and experience to legislative work that directly benefits the residents of Connecticut, according to the release.
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