Former Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Jonathan Harris has announced he is running for governor.
The Democrat launched an exploratory campaign last April. On Saturday he declared his run with a video announcement on his campaign website, followed by a press conference in West Hartford.
Harris told supporters he will focus on job creation, economic development and education as the cornerstones of his campaign.
“Economic development will not only create jobs in our state, it will build the vibrant neighborhoods where millennials, who will build our future, want to live and work. We will create jobs in all of our communities, large and small, urban, suburban and rural, whose futures are now more intertwined and interdependent than ever,” Harris said.
Harris stepped down as DCP commissioner in April. He is also a former mayor of West Hartford and state senator. He said his previous experience proves he has a track record of working on these issues.
In addition to public service, Harris practiced law for 20 years. He also formed and operated a real estate and economic development business.
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Other Democrats running include Ned Lamont, Bridgeport Mayor Joseph Ganim and former Veterans Affairs Commissioner Sean Connolly. Middletown Mayor Dan Drew ended his run in January after struggling to raise money.
