2026 Candidates
Meet the Democratic candidates ready to fight for Milford in 2026. Our community is served by Senate District 14 and House Districts 117, 118, and 119. Not sure which districts you live in? Click the button below to find out.
James Maroney for Senate District 14
James Maroney is a Democratic member of the Connecticut State Senate, representing the 14th District, which encompasses Milford, Orange, and portions of West Haven and Woodbridge.
First elected to the Senate in 2018, Maroney has built a reputation as one of the legislature’s most influential voices on technology policy, serving as the architect of Connecticut’s landmark consumer data privacy law and as a leading voice in state-level artificial intelligence regulation.
Before entering public service, he founded First Choice College Placement, a Milford-based educational consulting and test-preparation firm that he continues to lead. Maroney currently serves as Deputy Majority Leader and Co-Chair of the General Law Committee.
MJ Shannon for House District 117
MJ Shannon proudly serves as the State Representative for Connecticut’s 117th Assembly District, which includes parts of Milford, Orange, and West Haven. Born and raised in Milford, MJ is a passionate environmentalist and an advocate for social justice and community development.
MJ graduated from Foran High School in Milford and Plymouth State University, where he earned a BA in Political Science and Government.
Before his election, MJ served as the Clerk of the General Law Committee at the General Assembly, gaining valuable insight into the legislative process. Now, as a state representative, he remains focused on empowering the community, building strong relationships, and addressing key issues such as education, affordability, and environmental protection.
Toni Lombardi for House District 118
As a current Milford Alderman, Toni has worked firsthand to address the issues that matter most to the community — from protecting the coastline to ensuring strong public schools and making life more affordable for families and seniors.
Toni brings experience from her work in Milford Public Schools, where she saw the challenges facing students and educators every day. She also gained valuable insight into state government through her work in the Connecticut State Capitol, giving her a deep understanding of how to advocate effectively for Milford in Hartford.
Her commitment to this community is personal. As a proud mother of two, Toni understands the pressures families face and is ready to fight for solutions that make a real difference.
Alex Armstrong for House District 119
Alex grew up in Milford, where he attended public schools (Orange Avenue, Harborside, and Foran) and where he now lives with his wife Julie, their two daughters, and their dog Hugo.
Alex graduated from Georgetown University, majoring in Government and History, and has a Master’s in American Political Science from Yale University. Professionally, he works as a Vice President at a global nonprofit organization.
He served for three years on the Milford Sewer Commission, the final year as Vice Chairman. He previously served a term on the Milford Pension and Retirement Board, which manages the City’s pension fund. He is also a volunteer with the Friends of Milford Library and a member of the Milford Irish Heritage Society.
He is running for State Representative to advocate and fight for our community while we prepare for a changing climate, address the cost-of-living crisis, and reform Connecticut’s utilities to make energy cleaner and more affordable.