Hayes, Shea Face Off in 5th District
Voters in Connecticut's 5th Congressional District will choose between incumbent Jahana Hayes and Republican Chris Shea on Tuesday.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Elections
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Voters will cast ballots on Tuesday, November 3, in the Connecticut 5th Congressional District race between Democrat Jahana Hayes and Republican Chris Shea. Jonathan De Barros is also campaigning as a write-in candidate.
Why it matters
Connecticut's 5th District races have historically been close, making the outcome a closely watched contest for the state's congressional delegation. The result will determine whether Hayes wins a fifth consecutive term in Congress.
Hayes is seeking her fifth consecutive term in Congress. The source provides no vote totals, polling figures, or prior-cycle margins for the race.
The players
Jahana Hayes
Democrat and incumbent U.S. Representative for Connecticut's 5th Congressional District, seeking a fifth consecutive term.
Chris Shea
Republican candidate for Connecticut's 5th Congressional District who has campaigned as a veteran and firefighter.
The details
Chris Shea has campaigned as a veteran and firefighter and has promised to extend tax relief from the federal budget. Jonathan De Barros is running as a write-in candidate in the same district.
Timeline
Tuesday, November 3, 2026: Voters in Connecticut's 5th Congressional District cast ballots.
Political Context
Connecticut's 5th Congressional District has historically produced close races, and this contest follows that pattern. Shea's campaign centers on federal tax relief, a policy area where the two candidates' positions will be measured against the incumbent's record.
The outcome determines which candidate represents Connecticut's 5th District in Congress for the next term. Residents will see the result shape federal policy on taxes and other issues the representative handles.
The takeaway
Voters in the 5th District will decide whether to keep the incumbent or switch representatives, a choice that carries weight in a historically close district. Checking candidate positions on federal tax policy before voting can help residents weigh the options.
What happens next
Results from the November 3 vote will determine whether Hayes secures a fifth consecutive term.
Further reading
For more on the state's races, see Elections coverage for Connecticut.
Live Poll
Do you plan to vote in the Connecticut 5th District congressional race?
