Sen. Boucher Gives up Governor Bid, to Run for Re-election

The following news release was emailed by state Sen. Toni Boucher's approved but unofficial, "exploratory" campaign organization at 2:02 a.m. Tuesday:

State Senator Toni Boucher (R-26), who has been exploring a run for governor, announced today that she is running for re-election to the State Senate and will therefore not become a candidate for governor.
 
“Exploring a run for governor has been an extraordinary journey,” said Boucher. “I have been deeply moved by the outpouring of support from across my district and the state.

"I am struck by how many people feel that this administration's policies have made Connecticut a place too expensive to live, run a business, or retire. They are clearly angry that high costs are forcing them and Connecticut jobs to move to other states.
 
“From the start, I committed to putting my best effort into raising the funds and enlisting the delegate support necessary for a successful candidacy, and to making a decision early enough to ensure that my constituents in the 26th State Senate district would be well served.

"While we have made considerable progress toward our fundraising goals, it is unlikely that we will be able to reach them in the time that remains. These past several months have also made it clear that there is substantial work that must be accomplished in the State Senate to address the serious economic problems plaguing Connecticut.

"Therefore, I have decided not to pursue the race for governor, and instead to continue my work in the State Senate to make Connecticut once again a place where people and businesses have every opportunity to succeed.
 
“This year I will be focusing not only on my own re-election campaign, but also on helping other Republicans to be elected to statewide office and to the General Assembly,” Boucher continued.

“Our party’s candidates for governor are excellent, and I look forward to lending my active support to our Republican nominee. Because there are twice as many Democrats as Republicans in Connecticut, our gubernatorial candidate must be able to win more than just Republican votes.

"As a party, we must unite behind our gubernatorial candidate, as well as the Republican candidates for the General Assembly.
 
“Many dedicated volunteers have lent their impressive professional experience and stature to my exploratory committee, and this all-volunteer team made enormous strides in a very short period of time,” Boucher continued.

“I am deeply grateful to them for all their time, energy, and wise counsel. I also want to thank the many donors – Republican, Democrat, and unaffiliated – from across the state who have supported my efforts.

"I will be working hard during the coming months to make sure that I can continue to serve as their advocate in the State Senate.
 
“Our state is in serious trouble, and its future is at stake,” Boucher said. “My commitment to fighting for that future remains unwavering, because Connecticut is a state worth fighting for.”