Richard Blumenthal, commonly known as Dick Blumenthal, is an American politician and attorney serving as the senior United States Senator from Connecticut since 2011. A member of the Democratic Party, he previously served as the 23rd Attorney General of Connecticut for 20 years, from 1991 to 2011. His earlier career included roles as United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut from 1977 to 1981 and as a member of the Connecticut General Assembly in the 1970s. As Attorney General, he was known for his focus on consumer protection, environmental issues, and holding corporations accountable, securing major settlements against big tobacco and pharmaceutical companies. His Senate tenure has emphasized veterans' affairs, gun control, and investigations into corporate misconduct, with high-profile roles on committees such as Aging, Judiciary, Veterans' Affairs, and the Armed Services Committee.