SHARON, CT — On a quiet stretch of Route 41 in the Northwest Corner of Connecticut, a man in a blue T-shirt, khaki shorts, and a UConn cap walked along the roadside, enjoying the scenic landscape. But this wasn’t just any hiker — it was U.S. Senator Chris Murphy, beginning his ninth annual walk across Connecticut.
The walk, which started on May 28 in Salisbury, is part of Murphy’s yearly tradition to connect directly with constituents, listen to their concerns, and experience the communities he represents — one step at a time.
Walking with Purpose
Though he may have blended in with other walkers on the road, Murphy’s purpose was distinct. His goal: to spend five days walking across the state, not only getting some exercise but hearing from everyday citizens about the issues that matter most to them.
“My job is to listen,” Murphy said. “I can’t do my job well unless I hear what people are really going through.”
As he made his way through Salisbury, Sharon, and Kent on the first day, he paused often to talk with residents, even as staffers gently urged him to stay on pace. The walk, while symbolic, is also a serious listening tour — and Murphy isn’t one to brush past conversations.
Familiar Faces and Friendly Encounters
On the road between Lakeville and Salisbury, Murphy was greeted by Roberta Willis, a former state representative and longtime friend, along with her sister Sherie Berk. Holding a sign that read, “Chris, We’re proud of U,” the sisters offered warm support.
In Sharon, Murphy stopped at Sharon Center School, where he met with sixth- and seventh-grade students, and later chatted with younger children. “They had a million ideas about how to make our country better,” he said with a smile.
Later, he stopped by Standard Space, a local art gallery, before heading to Town Hall, where First Selectman Casey Flanagan presented him with a pedometer. Delighted, Murphy admitted it was something he’d been meaning to buy for years.
Local Concerns Come to Light
At Town Hall, Murphy learned more about one of Sharon’s local treasures: Mudge Pond. Selectmen expressed concern over the threat posed by hydrilla, an invasive aquatic plant that has begun to affect lakes across the region. While Selectman Lynn Kearcher said the pond’s current condition isn’t dire, the town remains vigilant.
“Lynn and I both grew up on that lake,” said Flanagan. “We want to save it for future generations.”
Kearcher also asked Murphy how citizens in small towns like Sharon could take meaningful action in the face of political gridlock in Washington.
Murphy’s response: get involved with activist groups and become part of the conversation. “All that can make a difference,” he said.
A Harsh Critique of Republican Policy
Murphy didn’t hold back when asked about recent legislation passed by the Republican-led House of Representatives. He warned that the bill poses serious risks to Connecticut, particularly due to a provision that would cut Medicaid reimbursements by 10% in blue states.
“It’s an ugly bill,” he said. “It would throw millions off Medicaid and add $3.5 trillion to the national debt.”
He stressed that policies like these disproportionately harm low-income residents and place added strain on state-level healthcare systems.
A Strenuous Climb to Kent
After leaving Sharon, Murphy continued south toward Kent, where the walk turned physically challenging with a steep mountain stretch. But once in town, he was warmly welcomed by community members, including staff from the Sharon Playhouse, who shared excitement about upcoming productions.
Crossing the Housatonic River on the bridge beside Kent School, Murphy reflected on the broader themes of the walk. Among the recurring concerns raised by residents were issues of affordable housing and Medicaid access.
“People are talking about the balance between land conservation and housing development,” Murphy noted. “It’s a tension playing out all across the state.”
Small Business Visits in Kent
In Kent’s downtown area, Murphy stopped at Motoriot, where owner Jason Doornick gave a tour of his garage and explained his business refurbishing vintage 4×4 vehicles. Murphy was impressed with the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
He also stopped by Kent Wine & Spirits and the local Mobil gas station, where he struck up a conversation with customer Tom Connors, who asked the senator, “When did bravery go out of fashion?” The question, delivered with sincerity, prompted a thoughtful exchange.
A Walk Rooted in Connection
Murphy’s walk will continue for four more days, with the goal of reaching Long Island Sound by week’s end. Each year, he chooses a different route through the state, ensuring that over time, he can visit every corner of Connecticut.
The walks have become a signature part of his approach to public service — low-key, personal, and focused on building trust through face-to-face dialogue.
“It’s not about speeches or events,” Murphy said. “It’s about showing up, being present, and hearing from people where they live.”
Looking Ahead
Murphy’s annual walk offers a stark contrast to the high-security halls of Capitol Hill, where policy debates often feel far removed from local life. In towns like Sharon and Kent, those debates are deeply personal, whether it’s about access to healthcare, the future of community lakes, or the cost of housing.
As Murphy continues his journey through Connecticut, the stories he hears along the way will likely inform the positions he takes back in Washington. And for the residents who get the chance to chat with their senator — even briefly — the walk represents something increasingly rare in politics: genuine connection.
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