Moses Carelus defeats Glastonbury Democratic incumbent Jill Barry in caucus surprise.

Four-term Democrat Jill Barry was defeated at a nominating caucus Thursday night by Moses Carelus. Barry, considered one of the few moderates in the House Democratic caucus is seeking her fifth two-year term from the Glastonbury district.

Barry had only 35 supporters at the caucus. Carelus brought 59, enough to win by 24 votes—without having formed a campaign committee.

The surprise challenge suggests Barry may have fallen out of touch with local party activists—a lot of them—and had no allies to alert her to the gathering storm.

Barry was endorsed by local Republicans, which may not have been helpful. She is said to be considering petitioning onto the November ballot.

Published May 21, 2026.