Southington Rep. Cites Legislative Record As He Seeks Third Term

SOUTHINGTON, CT — State Rep. Chris Poulos, D-Southington, said this week his re-election campaign is continuing to gain momentum as he seeks a third term representing Connecticut’s 81st House District.

Poulos' announcement comes after Southington Republican Tim Wilk, a retired local law enforcer, joined the race for the seat, which serves most of Southington.

Poulos said his campaign has qualified for Connecticut’s Citizens Election Program, a public financing system that requires candidates to meet fundraising and grassroots support thresholds through donations from residents rather than lobbyists or special interests.

The Democratic lawmaker said concerns about affordability, education, public safety and preserving Southington’s quality of life have emerged repeatedly during conversations with residents.

“As I travel through our neighborhoods and speak with residents, I continue to hear concerns about affordability, education, public safety, and maintaining the quality of life that makes Southington such a special place to live,” Poulos said. “I am running for reelection because I believe effective representation means showing up, listening, and delivering results.”

According to his campaign, Poulos has knocked on more than 1,000 doors across the district since the 2026 legislative session concluded May 7, meeting with residents to discuss issues facing the community and gather feedback.

“I’ve always believed that the best conversations happen face-to-face,” Poulos said. “Whether someone agrees with me or not, every resident deserves to be heard. These conversations help guide my work at the Capitol and ensure that I remain accessible and accountable to the people I represent.”

Poulos, a lifelong Southington resident, teacher and assistant majority leader in the Connecticut House of Representatives, pointed to several accomplishments from his first two terms.

He said those efforts include securing funding for local roads, housing, flood mitigation projects and community organizations; supporting tax relief measures for middle-class families, seniors and veterans; advocating for special education reforms; and working to preserve local zoning control and open space.

He also cited efforts to strengthen health care access and maintain what he described as a bipartisan, constituent-focused approach to public service.

“Politics can be divisive, but most people simply want leaders who listen, work hard, and put the community first,” Poulos said. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together, but there is more work to do. I look forward to continuing conversations with residents across Southington and earning their support once again this November.”