Connecticut Republicans have given Greenwich businessman Tom Foley a second opportunity to run against Democratic Gov. Dannel P. Malloy.
The former U.S. ambassador to Ireland defeated state Senate Minority Leader John McKinney in Tuesday's GOP primary, according to the unofficial returns that show Foley got about 44,464 votes and John McKinney had 35,563, and McKinney has conceded the race.
Foley was endorsed by the GOP and had been favored to win the match-up against the lesser-known McKinney, a 16-year veteran of the General Assembly from Fairfield.
Foley's victory sets up a rematch with Malloy, who won his first term by narrowly defeating Foley in 2010.
The Republican Governor's Association quicky put out a statement, pledging its support.
“It’s time to put Tom Foley in the governor’s office,” said RGA Chairman Chris Christie. “Foley has the experience in both the public and private spheres which will help him promote policies that create jobs, attract business, and reboot Connecticut’s economy. Connecticut needs a leader and a problem solver, and those are roles Foley is uniquely equipped to fill. The Republican Governors Association is proud to support Tom Foley for governor.”
Foley touts himself as a successful businessman and outsider with the skills to balance the budget and grow jobs. He has called for a 0.5 percent cut in the state's 6.35 percent sales tax and a review of its tax structure.
