Connecticut U.S. Senator (Class 3) — Richard Blumenthal
Richard Blumenthal, born February 13, 1946 in Brooklyn, New York, is serving his third term as Connecticut's senior U.S. Senator since 2011. A Harvard College and Yale Law School graduate, he previously served 20 years as Connecticut Attorney General, building a national reputation as a consumer protection and law-and-order advocate. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve from 1970 to 1976, attaining the rank of sergeant.
Lower prescription drug costs through Medicare negotiation
Status: completed
Blumenthal was author and lead Senate sponsor of provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act (passed August 2022) allowing Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug costs. Starting January 2026, Medicare can negotiate prices for 10 drugs annually, expanding to more drugs each year through 2029. Blumenthal characterized this as achieving his longtime goal.
Protect reproductive rights and pass Women's Health Protection Act
Status: in-progress
After the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022, Blumenthal authored and led the Women's Health Protection Act (WHPA) in the Senate. Although Senate Republicans blocked a procedural vote on WHPA, Blumenthal has continued advocacy through executive action urging, constituent meetings at Planned Parenthood branches, and rallies across Connecticut. The legislation remains pending.
Support gun violence prevention legislation
Status: completed
Blumenthal helped pass the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act in 2022, the first significant gun violence prevention legislation in nearly three decades. The law supports state red flag laws, shrinks the boyfriend loophole, addresses trafficking and straw purchases, and funds community violence intervention programs. Blumenthal also worked to confirm the first permanent ATF director in seven years.
Support Connecticut infrastructure including Northeast Corridor rail, bridges, and airports
Status: completed
Blumenthal secured billions in federal funding to speed up Northeast Corridor travel times and $560 million to repair, upgrade, and replace Connecticut bridges. He advanced funding for Bradley International Airport, Tweed New Haven Airport, Enfield Train Station, New London marine terminal, and Connecticut River Bridge projects through infrastructure legislation.
Protect veterans exposed to burn pits and toxic toxins
Status: completed
Blumenthal helped pass the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson PACT Act (2022) providing healthcare and benefits to multiple generations of veterans exposed to dangerous toxins. The law addresses the nearly 80% rejection rate faced by burn pit veterans seeking claims. In 2026, Blumenthal's Molly R. Loomis Research for Descendants of Toxic Exposed Veterans Act passed the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee unanimously.
Hold Big Tech accountable for social media harms to children
Status: in-progress
Blumenthal has led advocacy for the Kids Online Safety Act, which would establish safeguards against toxic content and hold Big Tech accountable for harmful algorithms. He has attended roundtables with youth activists, grieving parents, and constituents. As of 2026, the legislation remains pending but continues to receive Blumenthal's active support.
