Democrats, Republicans Endorse Candidates For Wallingford Mayor

WALLINGFORD, CT — Riley O’Connell, who came closer than any Democrat in the last 30 years of defeating longtime Republican Mayor William W. Dickinson Jr. in 2021, is making another run at the town’s top spot after receiving the Wallingford Democratic Town Committee’s nomination on Wednesday night.

Dickinson defeated O'Connell by fewer than 400 votes in the 2021 municipal election to claim his 20th consecutive term in office. Dickinson announced in March that he wouldn’t be seeking re-election.

Incumbent Democratic Councilor Vinnie Testa, who challenged O’Connell for the DTC’s nomination, was endorsed for another run on the Town Council. Fellow incumbent Sam Carmody, along with Jesse Reynolds, Mike Glidden, Bruce Conroy and Jason Michael also received the party’s endorsement for Town Council, the DTC announced.

For the Board of Education, the DTC endorsed incumbents Michael Votto and Maureen Reed, along with newcomers Ben Hyland, Melanie Rossacci and Sandy Storck.

“The endorsed Democratic candidates are exactly what Wallingford needs to ensure we invest in our schools, improve our infrastructure and technology, and grow our economy,” DTC Chair Alida Cella said in a statement. “Together, they provide the experience of long-serving members and the fresh insight of new voices.”

Incumbent Democratic Councilor Jason Zandri, who did not receive the party’s endorsement, is expected to collect signatures to primary for a spot on the November ballot, according to the Record-Journal.

Council President Vincent Cervoni received the Wallingford Republican Town Committee’s endorsement for mayor.

Incumbent Republican Councilors Autumn Allinson, Craig Fishbein, Tom Laffin, Joe Marone, and Christina Tatta also received the party’s endorsement along with Jeff Necio and Chris Regan.

For the Board of Education, the RTC endorsed incumbents Rajan Doering, Jennifer Passaretti, Donna Regan, Marla Roscoe and Ray Ross, along with newcomer Christopher DiGenova.

“A strong slate that will continue to serve Wallingford well,” the Wallingford Republican Party wrote in a post on Facebook.