View this post on the web at [link removed]
The 2026 Connecticut Republican Convention demonstrated something many believed was no longer possible in Connecticut politics: UNITY
Pictured - Gubernatorial Candidate Ryan Fazio with Lieutenant Candidate Matt Corey
As the Republican-endorsed candidate for Congress in Connecticut’s Fourth Congressional District, it was truly inspiring to witness a convention defined not by division, but by professionalism, respect, and a collective desire to move Connecticut forward.
At the convention, Ryan Fazio was officially declared the Republican-endorsed candidate for Governor of Connecticut. Midway through the voting process for Lieutenant Governor, candidate Tim Ackert conceded, paving the way for Matt Corey to secure the endorsement.
A Convention Marked by Respect and Professionalism
For Republicans in attendance — and for those watching statewide — the convention displayed one of the highest levels of professionalism and mutual respect many have seen in decades of Connecticut politics.
Former gubernatorial candidate Betsy McCaughey delivered a gracious concession speech praising Senator Fazio as a true professional and principled opponent who campaigned on the issues while honoring President Reagan’s Eleventh Commandment: “Thou shalt not speak ill of another Republican.”
McCaughey made clear that the real political challenge is not within the Republican Party, but against the policies of Governor Ned Lamont and the direction many believe is harming Connecticut residents through rising costs, affordability challenges, and continued outmigration.
Senator Fazio’s acceptance speech continued that same message of unity. He emphasized that Republicans, while in the minority statewide, can only succeed through coalition-building, discipline, and a shared vision for Connecticut’s future.
Concessions That Strengthened the Party
The Lieutenant Governor race carried a similar tone. As vote totals became increasingly clear, Matt Corey appeared poised to earn the party endorsement — a milestone achieved this time at convention rather than through the primary process, something Corey knows well from years of political perseverance.
Tim Ackert’s Message of Service Before Self
Tim Ackert then took the stage and delivered one of the most authentic and impactful speeches of the day. Speaking candidly about his journey as an Air Force veteran, small business owner, and public servant, Ackert reminded attendees what service truly means. His remarks reflected perseverance (after taking several cycles to get to Hartford), humility, and the understanding that service must always come before self-interest.
In many ways, Ackert’s concession speech may have been even more powerful than some of the victory speeches because it reinforced a critical truth: collectively, Republicans are stronger together than they are divided as individuals.
That message may ultimately determine whether conservative voices can truly compete and succeed in November.
Unity Beyond the Convention Hall
The Connecticut Republican Party remains a coalition with many factions, regional interests, strengths, and weaknesses. The consequences of fragmentation have been clear for years: losses in the State House, no federal representation, and limited success at the top of the ticket.
But if Republicans can continue embracing the spirit of unity demonstrated at this convention — from State Representative races to the Governor’s office, with all five congressional candidates working collaboratively as a team — 2026 could become the year Connecticut begins to change course.
No Single Person Controls a Party
It is important to remember that no single person controls a party. Every Republican — and every unaffiliated voter who shares Republican values — has a responsibility in shaping the outcome this November.
That responsibility belongs to candidates, RTCs, State Central members, volunteers, and individual Republicans alike. We must get the message out and show Connecticut there is a way out.
The People of Connecticut Decide November
At this point, the party has completed the endorsement process, but the people of Connecticut will ultimately determine the outcome. The responsibility now shifts from convention halls to neighborhoods, town committees, grassroots volunteers, and voters across the state.
Let us continue the spirit of unity demonstrated at this convention — especially on the same day that Donald Trump declared a National Day of Prayer as part of the celebration leading into the United States’ 250th anniversary.
Connecticut faces serious challenges, but there remains a path forward. If Republicans, unaffiliated voters, and those who believe in fiscal responsibility, affordability, opportunity, and accountable government work together, Connecticut can once again become a state people are proud to build their future in.
Young Republicans Are Building the Next Chapter
Patrick Burland - Chairman of CT Young Republicans addresses the Young Republicans -
Also pictured - CTGOP Chairman Ben Proto
Equally important was the strong contingent of College Republicans and Young Republicans in attendance — serving as delegates, campaign team members, volunteers, and guests. Their presence reflected the energy of a new generation ready to build Connecticut’s future.
That energy was represented by Geoffrey Medeiros, Chairman of the College Republicans, and Patrick Burland, Chairman of the Connecticut Young Republicans.
“After years of Democrat control and failed leadership, Connecticut Republicans have a unique opportunity to flip our great state. The presence of our College Republicans here at the convention is so important, and with the momentum on our side, we will help push all of our great candidates over the finish line.”
Geoffrey Medeiros, Chairman of the College Republicans
"At every level of our party, from Republican Town Committees to our nominee for governor, Young Republicans are stepping up because they know this election is our opportunity to make Connecticut affordable and safe again. The Democrats are in complete disarray as voters of all ages and backgrounds are abandoning their backwards policies and embracing Senator Fazio's plan to make Connecticut the best place to live, work, and raise a family once again."
Patrick Burland, Chairman of the Connecticut Young Republicans
These young Republicans were not there simply to hear old stories about when Connecticut was once red. They were there because they believe new glory days can be built ahead.
That enthusiasm was visible beyond the convention floor. Their event at Michael Jordan’s Sports Bar was packed, energetic, and full of excitement — a clear sign that the next generation of Republicans is not waiting for permission to lead. That event was also to launch their Young Republican Caucus.
Senate Minority Leader - Stephen Harding - Addresses CT Young Republicans
These Young Republicans also understand that energy alone is not enough. The next generation needs guidance, mentorship, and support from the right voices — leaders who want to build them up, not hold them back.
At the same time, the party must embrace the social media, communications, and influencer-marketing skill sets that younger Republicans naturally bring to the table. Those tools are no longer optional in modern politics — they are essential to organizing, messaging, voter engagement, and ultimately winning in November.
And some of these young leaders will not just volunteer, post, organize, or advise. They will step up and run for state seats themselves — bringing new energy, new skills, and a new generation of leadership to Hartford.
Join/Support the Young Republican Movement
ConnecticutYR.com [ [link removed] ]
X: @ConnecticutYR [ [link removed] ]
Instagram: @connecticut_young_republicans [ [link removed] ]
Facebook: @ConnecticutYRs [ [link removed] ]
Join/Support the CT College Republicans
X: @CTFCR [ [link removed] ]
Instagram: @CTFCR [ [link removed] ]
Facebook: @CTFCR [ [link removed] ]
Returning Connecticut to Prosperity and Opportunity
And that is one of the main reasons these candidates are running: to return Connecticut to a healthier, stronger state — a place of economic prosperity, opportunity, affordability, and promise for the next generation.
The path has been set. Now it is time to bring Connecticut with us.
This movement will not be built from the top down. It will be built through grassroots effort, unity, perseverance, and people willing to fight for the future of their communities.
— Dr. Michael Goldstein
Republican-Endorsed Candidate for Congress
Connecticut’s Fourth Congressional District
www.goldsteinforcongress.com [ [link removed] ]
Paid for by Goldstein for Congress
Unsubscribe [link removed]?
