Politics & Government

Dathan Wins Re-Election In 142nd State House District

State Rep. Lucy Dathan defeated Republican challenger Fred Wilms.

State Rep. Lucy Dathan won re-election Tuesday over Republican challenger Fred Wilms.
State Rep. Lucy Dathan won re-election Tuesday over Republican challenger Fred Wilms. (Renee Schiavone/Patch)

NORWALK, CT — Incumbent Democratic state Rep. Lucy Dathan unofficially won re-election Tuesday over Republican challenger Fred Wilms in the 142nd District, according to numbers from the Secretary of State's office.

Dathan unofficially received a total of 9,887 votes from constituents in portions of New Canaan and Norwalk that she represents. Wilms unofficially garnered 7,418 votes. The district encompasses portions of the two communities.

Two years ago, Dathan defeated Wilms for the seat when he attempted to win a third term.

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Following her unofficial victory Tuesday, Dathan issued the following statement:

In the end, campaigning "in the new normal" wasn't so different from years past.

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It required more Zoom, face masks, and hand sanitizer but I still was able, with the support of my amazing volunteers, to engage with much of our community on a deep level. There is nothing I love more about this job than connecting with the residents of Norwalk and New Canaan. It is such a privilege to serve each and every one of you in the 142nd District. I am indebted to my family for their unflagging support and to my campaign team who saw the numerous COVID-19 challenges as simply opportunities to find creative solutions.

Together, we have accomplished so much that many thought impossible back in March. Together, we found hope and faith despite tragedy and hardship. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris talk about what 'building back better' looks like. I know what this means first-hand because together that is just what we have done these last two years in Hartford, and that is what we are doing now as a community facing this pandemic. Now, more than ever, we need to have a strong voice in our state legislature that will work hard to protect key rights, especially as many of them are likely to be threatened by a realigned Supreme Court.

Though I'm optimistic about the results, every vote counts and it is important we honor our democratic process. I hope to be a safeguard against egregious Federal policies. And at a more local level, we need to continue to push for quality, affordable healthcare while addressing our current public health crisis; fully fund education, and work to resolve the State's financial troubles. As we look to the years ahead, we must find ways to move forward and not backward.

Together, we need to keep this state moving forward. I am up for the task. Whether you voted for me or not, I hope you'll join me. I am everyone's representative and I endeavor to earn every constituents' respect through my continued dedication to the district. It is an honor to take on this work with and for you.

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