Simmons Scores Convincing Win In Stamford Democratic Primary

STAMFORD, CT — It was an overwhelming victory for current State Rep. Caroline Simmons on Tuesday night, as she defeated incumbent Mayor David Martin by a wide margin in the Stamford Democratic mayoral primary.

Simmons will now face unaffiliated candidate and former Major League Baseball manager, Bobby Valentine, in the municipal election on Nov. 2.

According to unofficial results from Secretary of State Denise Merrill, Simmons collected 4,156 votes (63.28 percent) to Martin's 2,412 votes (36.72 percent). Simmons' campaign said she outpaced Martin in every single one of Stamford's 20 voting districts.

Simmons, 35, has been a State Representative for the 144th District since 2014. She was endorsed by the Stamford Democratic City Committee in July over Martin by a vote of 21-19. Martin then collected the requisite number of signatures to force a primary.

On Tuesday night, Simmons watched the results come in at Third Place by Half Full Brewery on Pacific Street. She addressed the crowd that had gathered around 9:30 p.m., and thanked them for their support in recent months.

"I was inspired to run for mayor because of the incredible resolve and spirit that I see everyday as a resident of this great city. I see it in the amazing work done by parents, teachers, volunteers, non-profit leaders, healthcare providers, frontline workers, so many working tirelessly everyday to give back to our city and helping out for the betterment of others," Simmons said. "I've had the honor and experience of serving as your state representative, and like all of you, I believe so badly in Stamford's potential because I believe in our people."

Simmons outlined her vision for Stamford, which she said includes rebuilding schools, improving infrastructure, and making city government more responsive to constituents. She said she also wants to make Stamford more affordable and inclusive, "a city that is bursting with opportunity for all of our children and for future generations."

Before Simmons made her victory speech, she received a phone call from Martin around 9 p.m. Martin congratulated her on the victory, and Simmons thanked him for his years of service in Stamford government.

"He's worked tirelessly for Stamford, especially this past year during the pandemic. We owe him a debt of gratitude," Simmons said. "I want to say to the mayor and all the mayor's supporters: we need you, and I would be honored to earn your support in this race so we can come together as democrats and take on Bobby Valentine and win this in November."

Martin, 68, has spent 40 years in Stamford government: 26 years on the Board of Representatives, eight on the Board of Finance, and almost eight as mayor. On Tuesday night, he awaited the results at his campaign headquarters on Hope Street.

Shortly before 9 p.m., Martin conceded and made brief comments to his supporters.

"It does not look like we're going to be continuing, unless some real miracle that I can't imagine happens," Martin said. "I really am proud of the accomplishments that we've done over the last eight years."

Martin pledged support to Simmons' campaign against Valentine.

"I called Caroline a few minutes ago and congratulated her on her victory. As I said during our campaign, I gave her my support for the election in November, although we have some difference in opinions on what it takes to run this very complex and diverse city," Martin said.

"Nonetheless, we have an agreement about some of the values that we share and the vision we have for this city and the need to make certain that we move forward in a positive way rather than moving backwards with a gentleman, despite all his celebrity status, is not the guy that I believe should be running this city," he added about Valentine.

In her victory speech, Simmons acknowledged Valentine's name recognition, but expressed confidence about her chances in November.

"Our opponent's campaign is about himself, and our campaign is about the people. Our opponent's campaign is a vanity project, while we are focused on serving others and putting others before self. Our opponent's campaign is about the past, our campaign is focused on the future. Together we're going to win in November because we have the experience and platform that resonates with people and puts people first," she said.

"Our city's future depends on this next election, and I'm ready to fight hard every single day, every single hour until the polls close."

Stamford residents also voted for several Board of Representative candidates Tuesday.

In District 5, according to unofficial results from the Secretary of State, challengers Bonnie Kim Campbell (166 votes) and Melinda Punkin Baxter (170 votes) defeated incumbent Reps. Lila Wallace (147 votes) and Gloria DePina (138 votes).

In District 19, Jennifer Matheny (319 votes) and Don Mays (320 votes) secured victories over John Pelliccia (292 votes) and Pina Basone (286 votes).