Senator Norm Needleman

Norm Needleman of Essex is a Democratic State Senator representing Connecticut's 33rd Senate District, which encompasses twelve towns: Chester, Clinton, Colchester, Deep River, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland, and Westbrook. He was born in Brooklyn, New York.

In addition to his state senate role, Needleman has served as First Selectman of Essex since 2011. As First Selectman, he has reshaped town government into a model of effective municipal management, maintaining some of the lowest property tax rates in Connecticut while preserving municipal services. He has built strong bipartisan relationships, creating inclusive dialogue among Democrats, Republicans, and Independents focused on efficient service delivery.

Needleman is a successful businessman who founded and serves as CEO of Tower Laboratories, a pharmaceutical manufacturing company he established over 40 years ago that has become a leader in its field.

Education

Needleman earned a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Adelphi University.

Political Experience

Needleman assumed office as State Senator in 2019 and is currently in his third term, with his tenure extending through 2027. He holds the position of Deputy President Pro Tempore of the Connecticut State Senate.

As a state legislator, Needleman has taken a leadership role as Co-Chair of the Energy and Technology Committee, focusing on policies affecting Connecticut's energy grid. He led development and passage of the "Take Back Our Grid Act" in 2020 and Senate Bill 7 in 2023.

His committee assignments include Commerce; Energy and Technology; Finance, Revenue and Bonding; Planning and Development; and Transportation.

Prior to his state senate service, Needleman served on Essex's Board of Selectmen from 2003 to 2011, the Zoning Board of Appeals from 1997 to 2003, and the Economic Development Commission from 1995 to 2003.

Needleman has supported fiscally responsible budgets without tax increases and forward-thinking policies including paid family and medical leave, strong investment in children's education and mental health, and development of a debt-free community college program in Connecticut.