Winsley Gets Endorsement from State GOP Head

The Republican deputy leader-at-large in the General Assembly has endorsed Naugatuck resident Wayne Winsley in his bid for 3rd Congressional District.

State Rep. Arthur J. O'Neill, R-Southbury, who also represents Bridgewater, Roxbury and Washington, released the following statement endorsing the borough resident in his bid to achieve the Republican nomination:

“I am very pleased to endorse Wayne Winsley. He is exactly the kind of candidate that Connecticut needs right now and his message of a commitment to reduce spending, lower the tax burden on families and business, and rekindle the American spirit of individual empowerment and achievement, is a message that resonates with voters of all ages and backgrounds.”

From winning a special election in 1988, O’Neill is the longest-serving Republican House member in the state General Assembly, giving him the title of "dean."

Winsley, , is seeking the state Republican nomination against incumbent Rosa DeLauro, a Democrat who has served 22 years.

In a press release, Winsley responded:

"I am deeply honored to have the endorsement of one of the most learned and knowledgeable legislators in our state. To have the support of a person who has served the people of Connecticut so well for so long is humbling indeed, and I am determined to be a good steward of the faith and trust placed in me by our state leaders—and most of all by the people of the Third District when I am elected their representative."

He went on:

"With a team effort, we will prevail and finally have representation that reflects the will of the people and respects The Constitution of the United States. The time has come for new leadership in Connecticut’s Third District.”

The convention to endorse the Republican candidate for Congress in the Third District will be held on May 18, 2012.