Fairbairn Withdraws From Norwalk Common Council Race

NORWALK, CT — Tyler Fairbairn announced Thursday night he will withdraw his name from consideration for a seat representing District C on Norwalk's Common Council just days before a planned second election against John Kydes.

The second election, scheduled for Tuesday, was the result of a tie between the two candidates in the District C Democratic primary election held earlier this month.

"It is with a heavy heart that today I am withdrawing my name from consideration for a seat representing District C on the Common Council," Fairbairn said in a statement sent to Patch. "Since starting this journey nearly four months ago, I have had the opportunity to connect with so many friends and neighbors about their hopes and concerns for East Norwalk, and I am incredibly thankful for all of the support."

See also: Norwalk Primary Tie Confirmed, Second Election Set For October

Fairbairn cited time commitments related to work, campaigning and family life as reasons for withdrawing but noted he went into the campaign process with "every intention of making it to the finish line" in November.

"I look forward to volunteering in the community in other ways," Fairbairn said, "but for now it will not be in an elected office."

Fairbairn thanked his supporters for putting up yard signs, knocking on doors, making calls, donating and offering encouragement along the way.

"I am forever grateful to the Working Families Party of Connecticut for their assistance in my campaign," Fairbairn said, "and to my own family for bearing with me through this process."

He also noted he will be doing everything he can to help his running mate Jenn McMurrer get elected to the Common Council this fall. McMurrer was the top vote-getter in this month's primary and secured her position on the ballot in November during that election.

"Jenn is not only a dedicated school volunteer, devoted mom and master campaigner, but also my friend," Fairbairn said, "and she would be such an asset to the city serving as a representative from District C."

McMurrer said Thursday she was "incredibly sad" but respected and supported Fairbairn's decision to step down.

"He has been nothing but supportive of me," McMurrer said in an email to Patch, "and I am very grateful he will continue to support me in the election. We are and have always been a team, even if it means we are not on the ballot together."