Lt. Gov Nancy Wyman Makes Governor Run Decision

HARTFORD, CT — Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman officially announced that she won't run for governor in 2018. The announcement ends months of speculation about the future of her political career.

Wyman said that family reasons kept her from running. Her granddaughter, a freshman at college asked if she was coming over for dinner and it took four weeks to schedule it.

"This is not how I want to be a grandparent. I believe that family should come first," she said in a statement.

Some wondered what Wyman's chances would be as Gov. Dannel Malloy's lieutenant since 2011. A recent Morning Consult poll found that Malloy was the second least-popular governor in the country with an approval/disapproval rating of 23-68 percent. Malloy announced he wouldn't seek a third term.

"I am deeply appreciative to Governor Malloy for asking me to run as his Lieutenant Governor," Wyman said. "I believe that people will come to understand the truly extraordinary work he and this administration have done, underpinned by a profound commitment to the people who elected us."

Malloy said it has been an honor and privilege to serve alongside Wyman since they were first elected together.

"Throughout her remarkable career, she has given a voice to those who are less fortunate, disaffected, or vulnerable," He said. "She has improved the lives of her constituents across Connecticut in countless ways, perhaps most notably by leading the creation of a statewide individual healthcare market place that is a model for states across the country."

Her decision wasn't the only reason she made headlines Thursday. A state vehicle that was transporting her was involved in a minor Vernon crash during the morning. No one was hurt in the collision.

Wyman said she was proud of accomplishments made in the governor's office over the years on important issues including healthcare, education, veterans services and human rights.

Wyman is a former x-ray technician who first got into politics by winning a seat on Tolland's Board of Education more than 30 years ago. She was then elected to the State House of Representatives. She served as State Comptroller for 16 years.

"Four decades ago, I ran for a seat on the Tolland Board of Education to be a voice for my children," she said. "Many years later, I’ve been humbled and proud to serve with men and women on both sides of the aisle who were strong and honorable leaders, who did their duty in the best interests of their constituents and the state as a whole, and who helped make Connecticut a better place."

She lives in Tolland with her husband Michael. Wyman has two daughters and five grandchildren.

Image via Office of the Lt. Governor