New CT Secretary Of The State Appointed By Lamont

CONNECTICUT — Gov. Ned Lamont announced today he will appoint Mark Kohler to serve as secretary of the state after Denise Merrill announced her resignation.

Merrill's resignation became effective at noon today. She is stepping away from her duties in order to care for her ailing husband.

The governor has the authority to appoint a replacement for the office when the General Assembly isn't in session. The term expires in January. Merrill announced earlier this year that she wouldn't seek re-election in November.

Kohler retired earlier this year after 30 years in the state Office of the Attorney General as an associate attorney general. He served as the head of the special litigation department from 2011 to 2021; the office represents all state constitutional officers, the legislature and the judiciary.

Kohler's experience in election operations and government administration makes him an ideal choice, Lamont said.

“The circumstances surrounding the need to fill this vacancy are very unfortunate, but I am pleased that Mark has agreed to step away briefly from his retirement and return to state service.," Lamont said in a statement.

Kohler said he was honored to fill out the remaining term.

“I have the utmost respect, appreciation, and admiration for the work Denise Merrill accomplished in this role, and I look forward to working with her dedicated team of professionals to ensure that our elections are carried out in an accessible, fair, and transparent manner," he said in a statement.