Jahana Hayes — Democrat Candidate for U.S. House in Connecticut, 2026

Congresswoman Jahana Hayes voted against the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2026, due to insufficient reforms regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and concerns about its practices undermining civil rights and public trust. She believes national security and border protection can be achieved while also safeguarding civil liberties. Hayes also joined other members of Congress in a letter questioning the State Department's indefinite pause on immigrant visas. Her office has also closed 932 immigration cases for constituents.

“I will not vote for a bill that gives ICE more money as public trust in the agency is eroded. This bill does not include broader reforms, including preventing U.S. citizens from being detained, mandating agents to remove masks, wear body cameras or adhere to the constitution, or requiring extensive training of officers. My constituents are horrified by ICE’s well-documented pattern of excessive force, lack of transparency, and disregard for civil and human rights. I join the over 500 civil and human rights organizations in the belief that Congressional funding has enabled DHS to become a dangerous agency operating with impunity. — Congresswoman Jahana Hayes, Press Release, January 22, 2026”

Congresswoman Jahana Hayes voted to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits in January 2026, citing the need for affordable healthcare access for all Americans and to prevent premium increases. She also opposed Republican-led funding bills in September 2025 that she stated would lead to significant healthcare cuts and increased premiums. Hayes emphasized that Americans should not have to choose between basic necessities and medical care.

“Americans are left wondering how they will afford healthcare. With the rising cost of living, many families are facing the tough decision of choosing to pay for basic necessities and seeking medical care. Every American should have access to healthcare and Republicans have failed to offer any other options." - Congresswoman Jahana Hayes, hayes.house.gov, January 8, 2026.”

Jahana Hayes demonstrates strong support for climate and environment initiatives, evidenced by a 100% score from the League of Conservation Voters in 2025 and 98% lifetime score. She voted against bills such as the Homeowner Energy Freedom Act and the Don't Mess With My Home Appliances Act. Hayes is committed to preserving environmental assets, addressing issues like algae bloom and invasive species, and cleaning Brownfields.

“Whether I am working to preserve the environmental treasures of the 5th District or fighting to combat the effects of climate change, I will be a strong voice and vote to preserve, protect, and enhance our environment. (Jahana Hayes, Ballotpedia.org)”

Jahana Hayes strongly supports abortion rights, stating on her campaign website that the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade goes against the spirit of the Constitution and every person's right to bodily autonomy. She voted in favor of restoring abortion access. Hayes is endorsed by Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America) as a champion for reproductive freedom in Congress.

“The Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade reverses fifty years of precedent and goes against the spirit of the Constitution. It is the right of every person to exercise autonomy over their body. - Jahana Hayes, jahanahayes.com/issues/”

Congresswoman Jahana Hayes supported the Venezuela War Powers Resolution, emphasizing the need for congressional approval before military actions and stating that no President should unilaterally engage the military. She also voted against the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act, citing concerns about the increasing defense budget lacking proper oversight, the Department of Defense failing audits, and the executive branch using the military without regard for the rule of law.

“No President should be able to unilaterally engage our military without a vote or debate in Congress (Congresswoman Jahana Hayes, Quiver CongressRadar, January 23, 2026).”

Jahana Hayes supports increased federal education funding and has introduced legislation, such as the Department of Education Protection Act, to safeguard the agency from efforts to dismantle it. She also advocates for enhanced mental health services in schools, evidenced by her introduction of the Supporting Trauma Informed Instructional Practices Act. Hayes emphasizes investment in educators and efforts to improve educational equity and affordability for students.

““As a teacher, there were times when I suspected a student was experiencing trauma, but had no support to navigate the situation,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “Trauma manifests differently in students; so having on site professionals to work with students, parents and teachers is essential to supporting a students’ emotional wellbeing.” (Congresswoman Jahana Hayes, Press Release, February 20, 2026)”

Jahana Hayes supports gun safety laws, aligning with her endorsement by Giffords, an organization focused on preventing gun violence and electing representatives who support lifesaving gun laws. Her official website also lists "Gun Violence Prevention" as a key issue, indicating her commitment to addressing gun-related concerns.