Southington Lawmaker Sworn In After One-Vote Win

HARTFORD/SOUTHINGTON, CT — An extremely tight race in November has come full circle for new state Rep. Christopher Poulos, D-Southington, who was sworn in for his first term in office Wednesday.

Poulos narrowly defeated GOP challenger Tony Morrison by just a single, solitary vote in November, a margin finalized after a recount of a race that, initially, had Poulos winning by six.

But whether it was a six-vote, single-vote or 1,000-vote margin, Poulos' seat representing the 81st House District, whose sole town is much of Southington, is his for now.

"I am grateful and humbled to represent the 81st District and I am confident my work will positively impact residents of Southington," said Poulos Wednesday. "The culture of our community wants someone representing them who does not compromise their values and works hard for everyone, which is a tenet of public service."

The swearing-in ceremony occurred in the House chamber on the opening day of the 2023 legislative session.

Poulos will serve on the commerce, education and veterans and military affairs committees.

"I am excited about my committee assignments and working with colleagues to find solutions to improve funding for our schools, grow Connecticut's economy and honor veterans for their service and sacrifice," said Poulos.

Poulos is a lifelong Southington resident and lives in the Plantsville section of town with his wife and children.

He was a member of Southington's town council from 2017 to 2021.

Poulos is currently a Spanish teacher at Joel Barlow High School in Redding and was honored as Connecticut's State Teacher of the Year in 2007.

In 2022, Poulos was also selected as one of five teachers to be inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame.

From Oct. 9: 'Candidate Profile: Christopher Poulos, 81st House District'

From Nov. 15: '1 Vote Decides Southington State Representative Race'