November 09, 2009

DGA moves Conn. into top-tier pickup list

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 9, 2009
CONTACT: Emily DeRose, (202) 772-5620
 
DGA moves Conn. into top-tier pickup list
Contest for next governor features strong Dem field, weak GOP bench

Washington, D.C. – The Democratic Governors Association is moving Connecticut into its top tier of targeted 2010 pickup races, as Governor Jodi Rell announced her retirement today.

“Connecticut voters are looking for a leader with a vision for the future, an understanding of the economic hardships families face, and the courage to make the tough decisions,” said Nathan Daschle, executive director of the Democratic Governors Association. “We are fortunate to have a strong field of Democratic candidates who are well-known public servants, each of whom has the knowledge, leadership, and judgment to guide the state through these tough economic times.”

“Moving Connecticut into our list of top-tier pickup opportunities means that the DGA will invest in the state to ensure a Democrat wins in 2010,” Daschle said. “Connecticut joins a growing list of marquee states like California and Florida where Democrats will play offense in 2010.”

“We also thank Governor Rell for her time in office and wish her well in her next step,” Daschle added. “However, Connecticut Republicans have no clear successor to Rell, who herself ascended to the governorship because of her predecessor’s ethics problems.”

Connecticut is very friendly territory for Democrats. President Obama won the state by 23 points and Democrats control both chambers of the Legislature.

Going into the critical 2010 election year, when 37 governorships are on the ballot, the Democratic Governors Association is well-positioned to provide candidates with the resources they need to compete. Already this year, the DGA has broken its all-time fundraising record for the first six months of the year, bringing in $11.6 million.

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