John A. Kissel is a Republican state senator representing Connecticut's 7th Senate District, which includes East Granby, Enfield, Somers, Suffield, Windsor Locks, and parts of Ellington, Granby, and Windsor. He serves as Chief Deputy Senate Republican Leader and is currently in his 16th term, having been elected since 1993 with his term ending in 2027.

Education and Political Experience

Kissel earned his B.A. in Liberal Arts, a degree from the University of Connecticut School of Education in 1981, and his J.D. from Western New England College School of Law in 1984. Politically, he is Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee , Regulations Review Committee, and Select Committee on Special Education; he also serves on the Finance, Revenue & Bonding Committee and General Law Committee.

Notable Achievements and Positions

Kissel is a leading advocate for seniors, earning awards like the Connecticut Commission on Aging’s “Agewise Advocate Award” , Legislator of the Year from the Connecticut Association of Not-for-Profit Providers for the Aged, Connecticut Assisted Living Association, and Connecticut Police Chiefs Association, plus recognitions from Mothers Against Drunk Driving and healthcare groups. He has received the RisCassi-Koskoff Civil Justice Award and is active in civic organizations in Enfield, including the Enfield Republican Town Committee and Greater Enfield Lawyers Association. Notable positions include opposition to marijuana legalization and a sole "Nay" vote against ending prison gerrymandering in 2021.