Matt Ritter

Speaker of the House Joe Aresimowicz (D-Berlin/Southington) and House Majority Leader Matt Ritter (D-Hartford) were unanimously chosen by their Democratic colleagues to return for a second term as the top leaders in the House of Representatives.

Following Tuesday’s election results, which saw House Democrats expand their majority status by 12 seats to 92-59 from 80-71, the incoming caucus, which includes 24 freshmen, met Thursday evening to select their leaders.

“It is once again an honor to be entrusted by my colleagues to be their leader and have their confidence in overseeing the House of Representatives,” Aresimowicz said. “Congratulations to my friend Matt Ritter on returning as our Majority Leader, as his continued counsel and guidance are so critical to our success as a caucus.”

Rep. Aresimowicz was first elected to the Connecticut General Assembly in 2004 to the 30th Assembly District, which includes the towns of Berlin and Southington. Prior to becoming Speaker of the House in 2017, he served four years as House Majority Leader.

“I am so proud of every member of the House Democratic Caucus,” Ritter said. “Their hard work and dedication is why we are here today. I know every member of our Caucus is ready to tackle the tough issues ahead of us in the 2019 legislative session. I also want to recognize our Speaker of the House, Joe Aresimowicz for his re-election as Speaker. Joe is an incredible leader, teacher and friend and I look forward to continuing our partnership.”

Rep. Ritter, a lifelong Hartford resident, was first elected in 2010 to the Connecticut General Assembly where he represents the 1st Assembly District in Hartford. This is Rep. Ritter’s second term serving as House Majority Leader.