Norwalk, Sunday January 31st
More than two hundred 4th CD Democrats jammed the Fat Cat Pie Company in Norwalk this afternoon to talk politics, listen to candidates, and have a good time. “This is just amazing, so many people",” said co-organizer Martha Aasen of Westport, “and we’ve got a great field of candidates to work for in 2010.”
Aasen and fellow Democratic State Central member Ted Hoffstatter of Wilton were behind the event, funded by several 4th CD Democratic Town Committees and a few individuals from the district. “It’s important that we all get together and have a good time,” said Hoffstatter, “before we begin the campaign season.”
Congressman Jim Himes was first to speak, followed by current Attorney General and U.S. Senate hopeful Dick Blumenthal. Both emphasized that Connecticut will be targeted by Republicans this year and that a major effort will be needed from everyone if the House and Senate seats are to continue to be held by Democrats.
Four gubernatorial candidates were also on hand – First Selectman Mary Glassman of Simsbury, who was the Democratic nominee for Lt. Governor in 2006, Ned Lamont of Greenwich, who was the 2006 U.S. Senate nominee, First Selectman Rudy Marconi of Ridgefield, and former Stamford Mayor Dan Malloy. All spoke of the need to have a Democratic governor to get the state back on track after twenty years of Republican rule.
Also addressing the crowd were State Comptroller Nancy Wyman and State Treasurer Denise Nappier, both of whom are seeking re-election to their respective offices, and Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz, who’s running for Attorney General. They were joined at the podium by sixcandidates for Secretary of the t;/span>State and one Lieutenant Governor candidate. George Jepsen, the former State Senator and Democratic party chair who’s also running for Attorney General, was present but had to leave early due to family obligations.
The Fat Cat party has quickly become a tradition for 4th CD Democrats, a time to renew old friendships from across the district, build networks, and plan for the future. The energy level was high, the mood was positive, with attendees feeling confident of the party’s chances in the fall. It was a good start to a long campaign season.
