Matthew Corey, a military veteran and owner of a bar in Hartford, Connecticut, has won the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Democratic Senator Chris Murphy. This victory positions Corey to face Murphy in the fall election.
Corey was the runner-up in the state GOP’s nominating convention in May, previously losing to Murphy in 2018. He defeated Gerry Smith, an insurance agent and local official who was favored by the Connecticut Republican Party, in the primary.
While Smith outpaced Corey in fundraising during the primary, bringing in roughly $62,000 in individual contributions compared to Corey’s $30,000, Corey ultimately ended the cycle with more cash on hand – $32,000 versus Smith’s $4,200.
Despite his victory, Corey faces an uphill battle in the general election. Connecticut hasn’t elected a Republican to the Senate since 1982, and President Biden won the state by a significant margin (roughly 20 points) in 2020 over former President Trump. Additionally, the state’s congressional delegation is entirely Democratic.
Further complicating the race is the massive financial advantage held by Murphy. He has amassed nearly $13 million in individual contributions this election cycle, compared to Corey’s significantly smaller sum, and is heading into the general election with $9.7 million in cash on hand.
Murphy, who represented Newtown, Connecticut during the Sandy Hook shooting in 2012, is seeking a third term. While he is the clear favorite to win, his victory will be a crucial boost for Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer as he strives to maintain the Democratic majority in the Senate.
The outcome of this race will be closely watched as Democrats attempt to hold onto their slim Senate majority.
