After Exploring Gubernatorial Options, Lembo Decides to Run for Comptroller Again

After opening an exploratory campaign to run for governor, state Comptroller Kevin Lembo announced Thursday that he is officially declaring his candidacy for re-election as state comptroller. 

“I have spent the past four months, with many of you by my side, traveling to every corner of this state as I explored a run for governor. These conversations and your record-breaking support have inspired and humbled me. This journey has also reinforced and reminded me what I’m most passionate about: a health care system and a state financial and economic system that works for everyone,” Lembo said in a statement. 

“I am determined to continue that fight, and believe the best place for me to do that is as state comptroller. And so – after reflection, consideration and consultation with my family – I am officially declaring my candidacy for re-election,” he said. 

Several well-known Democrats have expressed interest in running since Gov. Dannel Malloy announced that he will not seek re-election. 

Middletown Mayor Dan Drew announced in July his intention to run for governor and former Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Jon Harris and Bridgeport Mayor Joseph Ganim announced they were forming exploratory committees.

The announcements come at a time the state deals with fiscal challenges and the lack of a state budget. 

“Connecticut, with all of its financial struggles, is a place of great potential – in its people, its workforce and its values. This state was never meant to be the rest stop between New York and Boston but, rather, the economic engine of New England. That reality remains within our grasp,” Lembo said. 

In his statement running for Comptroller again, he offered words of thanks to people who have supported him. 

“To everyone who has contributed, volunteered, and supported me, I offer my deepest thanks. I couldn’t be more grateful,” Lembo said in a statement. “I’m excited about the future and hope that you’ll continue to stand by me, because the only way forward is growth – and the only way to achieve that is together.”

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