2026 Republican Candidates
Cheryl Thibeault for State Representative for the 79th
Cheryl Thibeault is running for State Representative in 79th District. A lifelong public servant, financial professional, and former City Councilwoman of Bristol, Cheryl brings experienced leadership, fiscal responsibility, and a stronger future for Bristol.
Cheryl is a seasoned financial professional who has led strategic planning and operations in the private, nonprofit, and public sectors. Most recently, she retired as Director of Finance for the New Britain Housing Authority. Throughout her career, she managed budgets, met payrolls, and delivered results while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Cheryl served four years on the Bristol City Council, including two years as Deputy Mayor. She also spent more than 13 years on the Bristol Board of Finance, where she became the first woman to serve as chair. Her extensive public service includes leadership roles on numerous city committees focused on public safety, infrastructure, transportation, energy, retirement security, and community development.
Beyond public office, Cheryl has dedicated countless volunteer hours to organizations including the Bristol Farmers Market, Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Wheeler YMCA, Girl Scouts, and local food pantries. She remains actively involved with the Forestville Village Association, OM/Keystone Association, and VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance).
Cheryl earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Maine. She and her husband, Wayne, have lived in Forestville for many years, where they raised their children, Gage and Veronica. Today, Cheryl is proud to be a grandmother to Wesley and Clyde.
When elected, Cheryl will work to:
Reduce energy costs starting with removing the Public Benefits Charges.
Support small businesses and local jobs by reducing burdensome regulations, cutting fees, and encouraging economic growth.
Protect individual and parental rights and freedoms.
Make Connecticut affordable for families, individuals, and seniors.
“As a Bristol resident, I understand the challenges families and seniors are facing every day. I’m running for State Representative to bring responsible leadership, financial accountability, and common-sense solutions to Hartford. I will fight to lower costs, protect individual freedoms, support our small businesses, and make Connecticut more affordable for everyone who calls Bristol home. I would be honored to earn your vote.” Cheryl Thibeault
Paid for by Elect Cheryl 79; Jon P. FitzGerald, treasurer. Approved by Cheryl Thibeault.
Phone: 860-877-6819 Email: electcheryl79.com
Cara Pavalock-D’Amato for State Representative for the 77th
Cara Christine Pavalock-D’Amato is a State Representative for the Connecticut General Assembly. She represents the 77th district which covers Bristol and has served in the legislature since 2015. Rep. D’Amato is a Whip for the House Republican Caucus. She serves on the Appropriations Committee, the Judiciary Committee and is the ranking member of the Insurance & Real Estate Committee.
Cara represented Connecticut as a delegate at the 2024 National Republican Convention to nominate the President of the United States and also served on the National Rules Committee. In 2026 she also served as the Chair of the Connecticut Republican Gubernatorial Convention.
Ms. D’Amato is a practicing attorney in both Connecticut and Florida with over 22 years experience. She is an active member of her community as a board member of the Tunxis Community College Foundation and State Child Support Guidelines Commission.
She lives in Bristol with her husband Tony D’Amato, their son Leo and three rescue dogs.