Retired Navy SEAL to Run for Congress in Connecticut

A retired U.S. Navy SEAL, who has served for more than three decades, announced on Tuesday his intention to seek the Republican nomination for Congress in Connecticut’s 5th District.

Christopher Shea will challenge the incumbent, Democratic Representative Jahana Hayes, who narrowly won re-election in 2024, securing 53.4% of the votes. In the previous election, she had a razor-thin victory margin of just 0.8%.

Shea stated, “This campaign aims to restore trust, normalcy, and accountability.” He expressed his commitment to public service, saying, “I have devoted my entire adult life to serving this country, both while in uniform abroad and ensuring safety in my community at home. My sense of duty continues post-retirement. I’m running for Congress to prioritize people over politics, bring decency back to Washington, and ensure that families in Connecticut’s 5th District can thrive.”

In a promotional video for his campaign, Shea, who is also the founder of the nonprofit Hero to Hero and a firefighter in North Haven, emphasized his dedication to “protecting the vulnerable,” “restoring hope,” and “resolving chaos.”

His campaign will center on economic growth, enhancing security, making life more affordable for families, addressing veterans’ issues, and defending American values.

Shea remarked, “Connecticut’s 5th District is filled with hardworking, sensible people. Unfortunately, our current representative has taken a different approach, aligning with some of the most extreme voices in Washington, endorsing policies that increase energy costs, undermine public safety, and burden working families, including my own. This is precisely why we need new leadership. I’m committed to restoring trust, normalcy, accountability, and, above all, serving the people of Connecticut’s 5th District. I’m ready to embrace this mission and stand up for my community.”