The top House Republican on the legislature’s tax-writing committee, Rep. Sean Williams of Watertown, announced Thursday he won’t seek re-election this fall.
“Serving as the voice in Hartford for my hometown and the town of Woodbury has been the honor of a lifetime and I’ll be forever grateful to the folks who put their faith in my ability to advocate on their behalf, often on deeply personal issues that carried far-reaching implications for themselves or a family member,” said Williams, who joined the legislature in 2003.
“A decade ago, I couldn’t have imagined that my admiration for the people of (the 68th House District) and the state for that matter, could grow to a higher level,” he said. “But today, I’m simply in awe of their ideas and ability to break through obstacles in life and in government, the ingenuity and perseverance of entrepreneurs and business owners, and, above all, their steady desire to preserve the qualities that they believe make Connecticut great. I’m thankful for the relationships I’ve developed and my experiences at the state Capitol, both of which will provide a continuing and immeasurable influence on my life.”
Besides being ranking member on the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee, Williams also serves on the Commerce and Energy & Technology committees.
One of only two Republicans on the State Bond Commission, Williams has been a vocal critic of the state’s high level of bonded debt, arguing against several projects as nonessential, such as the controversial New Britain-to-Hartford busway.
Williams’ announcement was expected once he did not enter the race to succeed House Minority Leader Lawrence F. Cafero Jr., R-Norwalk. Williams has a government affairs jobs with a national trade group representing airlines, which requires travel.