John-Paul Dorais Launches Campaign for 17th State Senate Seat

John-Paul Dorais, a devoted husband, father of three, small business owner, community volunteer, and dedicated Police Detective, has officially filed to run for the 17th District seat in the Connecticut State Senate, seeking the Republican nomination in the upcoming election.

The 17th District includes Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Derby, Naugatuck, Hamden, and Woodbridge.

Dorais grew up in Prospect and graduated from Woodland Regional High School. He now lives in Beacon Falls with his wife, Courtney, and their three children, Connor, Mason, and Avery.

Dorais said his decision to run was rooted in his role as a father and his desire to help build a stronger future for the next generation. “As a father of three young kids, I think about the future we’re leaving them every single day,” Dorais said. “Like so many parents across our district, I want my children to grow up in a Connecticut that is safe, affordable, and full of opportunity. That’s what inspired me to run.”

Dorais said his campaign will focus on three core priorities: lowering the cost of living, improving public safety, and ensuring a brighter future for Connecticut’s children and families.

“Families are working hard, but it feels like it’s getting harder and harder to get ahead,” Dorais said. “Rising costs for groceries, energy, and taxes are putting real pressure on parents who are just trying to provide for their kids. We need leadership that understands those challenges and is focused on making Connecticut more affordable for families.”

With 13 years of law enforcement experience, Dorais currently serves as a Police Detective managing cases that directly affect public safety across Connecticut. His experience on the front lines has strengthened his commitment to protecting communities and supporting law enforcement. “Public safety is fundamental to strong communities,” Dorais said. “Every family deserves to feel safe in their homes, neighborhoods, and schools. My experience in law enforcement has shown me how important it is to support our officers and ensure our communities have the resources they need.”

In addition to his law enforcement career, Dorais is also a small business owner, giving him firsthand experience with the challenges facing local employers and working families. “Small businesses are the backbone of our communities,” Dorais said. “We need to make Connecticut a better place to start and grow a business by reducing unnecessary burdens and creating an environment where businesses can succeed and create good local jobs.”

Dorais has also been involved in local government, serving on the Planning & Zoning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals, where he has advocated for responsible development and protecting local decision-making. “Local communities should have a strong voice in decisions that affect them,” Dorais said. “I believe in protecting local control and making sure our towns can make responsible planning and zoning decisions that reflect the needs and character of their communities.”

Throughout his career, Dorais has remained deeply engaged in community service. He has coached youth sports including tee ball, flag football, youth basketball, and high school basketball at Woodland Regional High School and Ansonia High School, mentoring young athletes in teamwork, discipline, and leadership.

He also serves as a board member of For Cameron Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about addiction and fentanyl exposure. Through this work, Dorais has helped provide Narcan to police departments across New Haven County.

“For me, this campaign is about the future,” Dorais said. “It’s about making sure our kids have the opportunity to succeed, that families can afford to stay here, and that our communities remain strong and safe. I want my children and every child in this district to have the chance to build their lives right here in Connecticut.”

Dorais said he plans to spend the coming months traveling throughout the district, listening to residents in all seven towns and building support among Republicans, Independents, and Democrats who want practical, community-focused leadership.

"I’m not a career politician,” Dorais added. “I’m a husband, a father, and a neighbor who believes in service and hard work. I’m running because I care deeply about our communities and the future we’re leaving to our children.”

For more information, visit www.doraisforstatesenate.com or email doraisctsenate@gmail.com