Executive Summary
- State Sen. Doug McCrory is seeking a sixth term despite an active FBI investigation into nonprofit funding.
- A grand jury subpoena has requested records regarding a potential conflict of interest with a local business owner.
- Rep. Maryam Khan is considering a primary challenge, citing the need for leadership "free of distraction."
- Khan previously sued Hartford police over their response to her 2023 assault; the lawsuit was recently dismissed.
- Ayana Taylor has also filed to challenge McCrory, having previously run against him in a 2024 primary.
HARTFORD, Conn. – State Senator Doug McCrory (D-Hartford) has confirmed his intention to seek a sixth term in office this November, proceeding with his campaign despite an ongoing Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) probe regarding the funding of Hartford-area nonprofits.
According to NBC Connecticut, Sen. McCrory maintains that his legislative focus remains on serving the 2nd Senate District, a seat he has occupied for eight years. McCrory, who serves as co-chair of the Education Committee, stated in an interview that he is confident his track record of economic development and community service will secure voter support, regardless of the federal scrutiny. He emphasized his commitment to small business growth and opportunities across the state.
The investigation involves a grand jury subpoena issued last year, which requested the state to turn over documents referencing a possible conflict of interest involving Sonserae Cicero-Hamlin, owner of the Society of Human Engagement & Business Alignment LLC. When asked about the inquiry, McCrory declined to discuss specifics, telling reporters, "I’m not here to talk about my relationships with people. I have relationships with all people in my community." He expressed confidence that he would be cleared of any wrongdoing.
The incumbent senator faces potential opposition from within his own party. State Representative Maryam Khan (D-Windsor) told NBC Connecticut she is considering a primary challenge, explicitly citing the federal investigation as a factor. "I think the district deserves leadership that is free of distraction," Khan said, adding that she expects to make a decision by May. Additionally, Ayana Taylor has filed paperwork to challenge McCrory; Taylor previously competed against him in a 2024 Democratic primary.
Rep. Khan has also faced recent public attention regarding a 2023 incident where she was assaulted outside a Muslim prayer event. Khan criticized the Hartford Police Department’s response, alleging they failed to provide timely medical attention. A federal judge recently dismissed Khan's civil rights lawsuit concerning the matter, and an internal affairs investigation cleared the responding officer. However, Khan continues to stand by her complaint, stating that other women in her district have shared similar concerns regarding law enforcement interactions.
Electoral Implications and Investigative Outlook
The convergence of a federal investigation and a contested primary environment presents a significant challenge for the incumbent leadership in Hartford’s 2nd Senate District. While the FBI inquiry into nonprofit funding remains active, the political impact is immediate, offering leverage to challengers who argue that the district requires leadership unburdened by legal scrutiny. The outcome of the upcoming election cycle will likely test whether established community ties can outweigh the reputational risks associated with federal probes. It is important to note that Sen. McCrory has not been charged with a crime, and all individuals involved in the investigation are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
