Laurie Burstein

Laurie Burstein is the First Selectman of Ellington, Connecticut, serving as the town's Chief Executive Officer. She made history in the November 4, 2025 election by becoming the first Democrat elected to Ellington's top office in 22 years, defeating incumbent opponent Spielman by more than 150 votes. As First Selectman, Burstein presides over the Board of Selectmen meetings, represents the town at state, regional, and community meetings, and is responsible for the implementation of ordinances, resolutions, policies, and other actions voted on by the Board of Selectmen or Town Meeting.

In her role, Burstein serves as an ex-officio member of other boards, commissions, and departments, and works closely with the Town Administrator to oversee the continuous review of current and future needs of Ellington. Her daughter Rachael is a Regional Planner for the state of Massachusetts, an experience Burstein has cited as informing her understanding of community planning. She can be contacted at Ellington Town Hall, located at 55 Main Street, Ellington, CT 06029.