Stratford Primary Elections Set For Tuesday, Aug. 9

STRATFORD, CT — Registered Democrats and Republicans will head to the polls Tuesday for a primary election to determine the candidates for state races in November.

In Stratford, the Democratic primary will determine the party’s candidates for secretary of the state and state treasurer for the Nov. 8 election. Voters in the 23rd Senatorial District will also select a candidate for state senator.

In the 23rd District, incumbent Democratic state Senator Dennis Bradley is challenging the party’s endorsed candidate – Herron Gaston – after failing to receive the nomination. Bradley was indicted last year on federal charges in connection with a campaign fund scheme, according to authorities. He has denied wrongdoing as he awaits trial.

The Republican primary will determine the Republican candidates for the secretary of the state and U.S. Senate.

Democratic Primary Ballot

State Rep. Stephanie Thomas, of Norwalk, won the Democratic party's endorsement for secretary of the state. She will face off against New Haven Director of Health Maritza Bond.

Attorney Erik Russell, of New Haven, was endorsed to run for state treasurer. Voters will choose between Russell, investment manager Dita Bhargava, of Greenwich, and President of Elm City Communities in New Haven, Karen Dubois-Walton. Democrat Shawn Wooden stepped down as treasurer earlier this year.

Republican Primary Ballot

Madison resident and former state Rep. Themis Klarides (endorsed candidate), Republican National Committee member Leora Levy, of Greenwich, and Peter Lumaj, an attorney from Fairfield, are vying to face incumbent Richard Blumenthal for U.S. Senator in November.

Party-endorsed candidate Dominic Rapini, an employee of Apple, is running against state Rep. Terrie E. Wood, of Darien, for secretary of the state. New Britain mayoral aide Brock Weber qualified for the primary, but ended his campaign earlier this summer.

Polling places are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.