Joe Kelly, a longtime Greenwich civic leader known for building consensus in local government and strengthening community institutions, announced that he will seek election to the Connecticut State Senate in the 36th District.
Kelly said his campaign will focus on restoring a tone of civility and cooperation in public life while advancing the fiscal discipline and community-first approach that has defined his public service.
“Public service should bring people together to solve problems,” Kelly said. “Too often politics divides neighbors who share the same goals. I believe we can we can work with everyone who truly wants to represent all the people, not just some of the people.”
Greenwich First Selectman Fred Camillo said Kelly’s reputation as a unifier and community leader made him a natural choice to carry forward the district’s tradition of practical leadership.
“As we turn our attention towards the November elections, here in Greenwich, I am proud to support one of Greenwich’s biggest champions, and most active volunteers, Joe Kelly,” Camillo said. “Whether on the athletic fields, or the halls of local government, Joe can always be counted on to be front and center when duty calls.”
Kelly’s campaign message reflects themes that have guided his years of service in Greenwich: constructive dialogue, fiscal responsibility, and a belief that government works best when leaders focus on solving problems rather than scoring political points.
Those priorities closely align with the work Senator Fazio has championed in Hartford, particularly his focus on affordability, responsible budgeting, transparency and thoughtful policymaking.
“Ryan Fazio has been a strong advocate for affordability and responsible, transparent government,” Kelly said. “Those priorities are important to families across the 36th District. If elected, I will continue working to ensure Connecticut lives within its means while strengthening the communities we call home.”
Kelly’s record in Greenwich reflects that approach. As chairman of the Greenwich Board of Education, he was unanimously elected by a politically divided board and pledged to ensure every voice at the table was heard. The board’s decision highlighted Kelly’s reputation for bridging divisions and encouraging cooperation among members with differing views.
That approach also helped bring one of the town’s most visible community projects to completion. As a Board of Education leader and liaison to the Cardinal Stadium effort, Kelly helped unite town officials, school leaders, community advocates, and donors to complete the long-awaited renovation of Greenwich High School’s Cardinal Stadium. The project replaced aging bleachers, added modern facilities, and reopened the stadium to students and residents in 2021, restoring a central gathering place for the community.
During his tenure on the Board of Education, Kelly worked to foster transparency, improve accountability, and encourage a governing style focused on solutions rather than partisanship. He has also served the town as a youth mentor and coach, most notably leading the Greenwich High School rugby program to nine championships in just ten years while mentoring generations of students and athletes.
Camillo said Kelly’s leadership style stands out at a time when many voters are looking for a more constructive path forward.
“Just as important, he serves with a smile and eagerness that is very much welcome in an age where obstruction and division seems to be the preferred method for many who seek office,” Camillo said.
For Kelly, the campaign will focus on listening to residents and building a coalition that reflects the shared priorities of the district’s communities.
“The 36th District includes people with different viewpoints and experiences,” Kelly said. “But we all want strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and a government that respects taxpayers and works responsibly on their behalf.”
Kelly said he intends to continue the tradition of pragmatic leadership that has defined the district’s Senate representation.
“Joe proudly follows in the tradition of the ‘happy warrior,’ and that is needed now more than ever,” Camillo said. “Joe will make a great state senator and follow in the footsteps of such noted Greenwich legends as Michael Morano, Benny Benvenuto, Bill Nickerson, Scott Frantz, and Ryan Fazio.”
The 36th Senate District includes Greenwich, New Canaan, and portions of Stamford.
Kelly said his campaign will center on meeting residents across the district, listening carefully to their concerns, and building a positive movement focused on results.
“Our communities succeed when people come together with good ideas and a willingness to serve,” Kelly said. “That is the spirit I will bring to Hartford.”
Additional campaign details will be announced in the coming weeks.
