Longtime Stratford Registrar Vs. Dem-Endorsed Challenger Tuesday

STRATFORD, CT — Stratford Democrats will weigh in during Tuesday’s primary about whom they think should oversee elections in town, as the long-time Democratic registrar of voters faces an opponent.

Rick Marcone has been the registrar for 12 years. He could lose his post after the Stratford Democratic Town Committee in May endorsed former Town Council candidate James Simon to run for the position. Marcone then petitioned to challenge Simon in the primary.

“My priority as registrar of voters has always been and will always be to ensure an equal and fair election process, reaching out to all eligible voters in Stratford and maintaining the integrity and confidence in the process,” Marcone said in a Patch candidate questionnaire.

Marcone in the questionnaire touted his “Safe Polls Plan” to prevent coronavirus transmission by training poll workers, providing protective equipment and developing a mail-in voting approach. He also discussed his “Secure Polls Plan,” which involves evaluating and addressing any potential cybersecurity weaknesses ahead of elections.

Simon, a scholar in residence at Southern Connecticut State University, said in the questionnaire that if elected, he would work to undo gerrymandering in town and cut costs by scaling back the role of registrar to part-time. He also referenced the 2018 election for the 120th legislative district, in which state Rep. Phil Young defeated former Town Council chairman Jim Feehan in a victory that was clouded by uncertainty when 75 voters were given the wrong ballot.

“I want to bring a fresh approach, right some obvious wrongs, do my job, cut spending, and leave the office better for my efforts,” Simon said in the questionnaire.

READ MORE: Stratford Candidate Profile: Rick Marcone For Registrar Of Voters

READ MORE: Stratford Candidate Profile: James Simon For Registrar Of Voters

Stratford Democratic Town Committee Chairman Steven Taccogna filed a complaint with state officials questioning the legitimacy of Marcone's primary challenge. Marcone has also gained access to the November ballot as a petitioning candidate, but said he intends to withdraw the petition should he win Tuesday's primary.

For details on when and how to vote, visit bit.ly/3fKNE9K.