Julie Kushner is a Democratic politician and retired trade unionist representing Connecticut's 24th State Senate District, which encompasses Danbury and portions of New Fairfield and Ridgefield. She represents over 100,000 residents in this district.

Political Experience

Kushner was first elected to the Connecticut State Senate on November 6, 2018, in an upset victory over incumbent Michael A. McLachlan. She was sworn in on January 9, 2019, and subsequently won reelection in 2020, defeating Susan Chapman.

Currently, Kushner holds several prominent committee positions within the Connecticut General Assembly:

• Senate Chair of the Labor & Public Employees Committee
• Vice-Chair of the Children and Public Health Committees
• Member of the Appropriations, Education, Executive & Legislative Nominations, and Housing committees
• Deputy President Pro Tempore

Notable Achievements and Background

Before entering electoral politics, Kushner had a distinguished career in labor advocacy. She worked for the United Auto Workers and was elected Director by members of United Auto Workers Region 9A, which covers New England, portions of New York, and Puerto Rico.

Kushner served as co-chair of the Connecticut Working Families Party for eight years and has been deeply involved in progressive advocacy organizations. She is a lifetime member of the NAACP, a member of the Coalition of Labor Union Women, and a member of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement.

Throughout her political engagement, Kushner has served as a delegate or alternate delegate to every Democratic National Convention since 1996. Her legislative priorities have focused on worker protections, particularly advocating for paid sick days for all Connecticut workers.