The special election to fill the seat in Connecticut’s 139th House District is set against a backdrop of significant tension and legal challenges. This election follows the passing of Representative Kevin Ryan, who held the position since its inception after the 1990 Census. The contest marks a crucial moment for the district, which encompasses parts of Ledyard, Montville, and Norwich.
Tensions Surrounding the Special Election
Voters are faced with the possibility of electing a member of the Eastern Pequot tribe, Larry Pemberton Jr., or a Republican candidate, Brandon Sabbag. This election could potentially see the first state-recognized tribal member in the Connecticut General Assembly or a Republican candidate winning in a district previously held by a Democrat.
- Date of Election: Special election held on Tuesday.
- Democratic Candidate: Larry Pemberton Jr., endorsed with a 9-3 vote.
- Republican Candidate: Brandon Sabbag, a businessman with a challenging personal history.
- Third Candidate: Mark Adams, a Republican excluded from the ballot, is campaigning as a write-in.
Legal Challenges
Adams’ lawsuit against the state’s secretary of the state claims improper exclusion due to a missing signature on his Independent Party nomination papers. A Superior Court judge recently declined to dismiss the case, leaving the potential for a new election if Adams is successful.
Background of Candidates
Pemberton, the Democratic candidate, recently transitioned from being an unaffiliated voter and serves as the treasurer for the Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation. His candidacy received backing from state Senator Cathy Osten, a supporter of the tribes.
Sabbag has a complex background. He faced homelessness in his youth and has a criminal record, including felony witness tampering and misdemeanor assault, though he has publicly addressed these issues. His past complicates his campaign amidst growing voter unrest.
Campaign Dynamics
In early voting, Democrats outnumbered Republicans by a ratio of 3:1. Of the 668 ballots cast, 375 were from Democrats, countering 117 from Republicans, with the remainder coming from unaffiliated and Independent voters.
Amidst the political drama, long-time council member Billy Caron feels sidelined and has encouraged write-in votes as a form of protest against the perceived interference in the endorsement process. His grievances reflect the undercurrents of rivalry and dissatisfaction within the party dynamics.
Conclusion
The 139th House Seat special election is not just a fight for a vacant position—it represents contentious party politics, legal battles, and historical shifts in representation. As the election unfolds, its implications will resonate well beyond a mere 10-month term, setting the stage for future contests in this politically charged district.
