Martin M. Looney

Martin M. Looney is a Democratic politician from New Haven, Connecticut, born on July 23, 1948. He is the only son of two working-class Irish immigrants and has dedicated his career to public service in Connecticut's legislature. Currently serving as the President Pro Tempore of the Connecticut State Senate—the highest-ranking legislator in the Connecticut General Assembly—Looney is the longest-tenured Senate President Pro Tempore in Connecticut history.

Political Experience

Looney's legislative career spans 46 years. He was first elected to the Connecticut House of Representatives in 1980 and served six terms before being elected to the State Senate in 1992, where he currently represents District 11. He is in his seventeenth term in the State Senate.

Key Leadership Positions:

• President Pro Tempore : Elected in January 2015 and re-elected in January 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2025
• Senate Majority Leader : Served for 12 years before advancing to President Pro Tempore
• Senate Chair of the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee: Three terms
• Senate Chair of the Banks Committee: One term
• Senate Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee: One term

During his tenure in the House of Representatives, Looney served as Assistant Majority Leader and chaired the Planning and Development Committee, Government Administration and Elections Committee, and the Appropriations Judicial Subcommittee, while serving as Vice Chair of the Judiciary Committee.

Notable Achievements

Throughout his career, Looney has championed progressive legislation and earned numerous recognitions. He supports earned income tax credits for the working poor, minimum wage increases, and paid family and medical leave. Notable legislative accomplishments include:

• Co-authored Connecticut's historic assault weapon ban in 1993
• Helped craft and lead passage of bipartisan Jobs Bills in 2011 and 2012 aimed at supporting small and medium-sized businesses, manufacturers, and post-9/11 combat veterans
• Advocated for tax credit incentives for employers providing on-site child care
• Worked on progressive income tax reforms since 1991

Awards and Recognition:

• Connecticut Trial Lawyers Association Civil Justice Award
• Coalition Crusader Award for work with domestic violence issues
• National Coalition for Capital Champion of Small Business Award
• AARP Capitol Caregiver Award
• Connecticut Probate Assembly Public Service Award
• Connecticut Bar Association Special Recognition Award
• Connecticut AFL-CIO Legislative Beacon of Light Award
• Legislator of the Year by the Caucus of Connecticut Democrats

Looney also serves as adjunct faculty at Quinnipiac University and is married to Ellen with one child, Michael.