About

Sen. Rob Sampson, a steadfast advocate for individual liberties and transparent governance, has been a prominent figure in Connecticut politics for over a decade, representing the 16th Senate District, which includes Cheshire, Prospect, Southington, Waterbury, and Wolcott. He was re-elected in November 2024 to serve a fourth term in the Connecticut State Senate.

Previously, Senator Sampson served four terms in the Connecticut House of Representatives, representing the 80th District from 2011 to 2018. During his tenure, he built a reputation for principled leadership and eloquent advocacy for limited, representative, constitutional government.

In his fourth Senate term, Senator Sampson was named Senior Deputy Leader of the Senate Republican Caucus. He also serves as the Policy and Screening Chairman, playing a key role in shaping the legislative agenda and guiding policy development within his caucus. These leadership positions reflect the high regard his colleagues have for his insight, dedication, and expertise.

Born on August 28, 1969, in New Haven, Connecticut, Senator Sampson was raised in Meriden and graduated with honors from Maloney High School. He pursued higher education at Central Connecticut State University, majoring in marketing. Demonstrating a strong work ethic from a young age, Senator Sampson held various jobs, including roles as a stock boy, auto mechanic, handyman, and even a roadie for a deejay company. He later established a successful career in real estate and insurance, working as a realtor and regional recruiter for Realty 3 of Connecticut and serving as an advisor and counselor in the insurance industry.

Senator Sampson’s political career is marked by his unwavering commitment to conservative principles and individual rights. He is renowned for his staunch defense of the Second Amendment and has been an active member of the National Rifle Association (NRA). As a gun owner and advocate, he gained statewide recognition in 2013 for his unyielding defense of constitutional principles and law-abiding gun owners. His dedication earned him the Legislator of the Year award from the Connecticut Citizens Defense League in 2012 and the NRA Defender of Freedom award in 2014.

Throughout his legislative tenure, Senator Sampson has been a vocal proponent of election integrity and government transparency. He has consistently advocated for shedding light on government funding and ensuring that public funds are utilized for their intended purposes. His leadership in promoting transparency in government and budget matters was recognized by the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities, which named him a “Legislative Champion of the Year” during the 2021 legislative session.

Senator Sampson’s dedication to Connecticut’s economic competitiveness is evident through his consistent pro-business voting record. In both 2022 and 2023, he earned a 100% pro-business voting record from the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA), being one of only two senators to receive this distinction in 2022.

In recognition of his commitment to law enforcement, Senator Sampson was honored with the Connecticut Police Chiefs’ Association (CPCA) Carroll J. Hughes Legislator of the Year Award in December 2024. This award, named in honor of respected lobbyist Carroll J. Hughes, acknowledges lawmakers who champion initiatives critical to law enforcement.

His principled stance on conservative ideals and dedication to America’s founding principles have also been recognized by the Conservative Political Action Coalition (CPAC), which awarded him a “100 percent” conservative rating for his 2023 voting record. CPAC also honored him with its “Excellence and Achievement Award” for his 2021 voting record.

Beyond his legislative duties, Senator Sampson is an avid supporter of individual rights and the Constitution. His personal interests include renovating houses, restoring classic cars and motorcycles, playing the guitar, target shooting, and exploring the outdoors. His passion for history, particularly the American Revolution and Civil War, fuels his political ethos, with Abraham Lincoln serving as his inspiration for entering politics and becoming a Republican.

Sen. Rob Sampson’s steadfast commitment to his constituents and his principled advocacy for individual liberties, transparent governance, and economic growth continue to make him a distinguished leader in Connecticut’s political landscape.