The race is set for the 19th state Senate District, as Democrats and Republicans held their conventions Tuesday at Norwich City Hall.

Democrats unanimously endorsed six-term incumbent state Sen. Cathy Osten, D-Sprague on Tuesday, and Republicans unanimously endorsed Hebron Republican Town Committee Chairman Jason Guidone.

“I love the work,” said Osten. “Over and over again, each and every one of the towns that I get the honor to represent, I am so thrilled to be representing you,” Osten said. “And I want you to know, that you can always hold me accountable. Always hold me accountable.”

“We need a shift in the trajectory of this state, I think you all well know that,” Guidone said. “And I’m looking forward to working with you all to get that done. Thank you for your support. God bless America.”

Osten is co-chair of the legislature’s Appropriations and Public Safety and Security committees. She has emphasized constituent service, advocates for senior citizens, workers and Connecticut’s state-recognized Indian tribes. The Mohegan Sun Casino and Foxwoods Resort Casino are in the 19th District.

Guidone, 49, retired after 20 years working at ESPN in video production and management. He and his late wife moved to Hebron in 2015. He said he decided to seek the nomination because the best way to affect change is to become a part of the legislative body that enacts the legislation.

The 19th state Senate District covers Norwich, Ledyard, a small portion of Montville and four other northern New London County towns ― Franklin, Lebanon, Lisbon and Sprague ― as well as Columbia and Hebron in Tolland County and Marlborough in Hartford County.

c.bessette@theday.com

d.drainville@theday.com