Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling and state Senator Bob Duff (D-25) announced Saturday their endorsement of Keith Rodgerson for Connecticut’s 143rd state House district, which includes portions of Norwalk, Westport, and Wilton, according to a press release from Mr. Rodgerson’s campaign. Mr. Rodgerson was also endorsed this weekend by the Connecticut Council of Police, Council 15.
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“Keith is very much attuned to the unique challenges that a city like Norwalk faces every day,” Mr. Rilling said. “As someone who has chosen to live in many of Connecticut’s cities including ours, Rodgerson knows first hand the struggle our cities have getting their fair share in Hartford. I know that Keith will fight for us and make sure that Norwalk gets proper representation in the legislature. Because of this, I strongly endorse his candidacy.”
Mr. Duff added, “With his background in economic development, Keith is exactly what Norwalk needs in a legislator during these uncertain times. He has a deep well of experience in working with many federal, state and local entities (HUD, EPA, DECD, DEEP). His experience as an implementer in projects that have helped to grow Connecticut’s economy and create good jobs will be a major asset for us. He’ll bring a common sense approach and will be an independent voice representing Norwalk in Hartford.”
Mr. Rodgerson said, “I’m honored to receive the endorsement of both Mayor Rilling and Sen. Duff, two men known for their ability to reach across the aisle. I look forward to working constructively with them both to help solve our transit woes, grow our economy, and keep in place common-sense laws that protect our children. These issues are critical to our region’s prosperity.”
The endorsement from Council 15 said, “It is our firm belief that your election to the State Legislature is in the best interests of the residents of Connecticut as well as our thousands of members who serve as sworn police officers throughout the State. The Executive Board’s unanimous decision is evidence of our commitment to you.”
“I am thankful to have this show of support from our policemen,” said Mr. Rodgerson, who added he comes from a family of Connecticut police officers and firefighters. “We must always ensure that those who protect us in our greatest time of need are given the support they need. They put their safety on the line for us every day, so we must always look out for them in these uncertain and challenging times. When I go to Hartford, I will ensure that the agendas of our first responders are heard and acted upon, and that we protect, not divide and weaken, Connecticut’s common sense gun legislation.”
The Connecticut Council of Police, Council 15 represents nearly 4,000 police officers from more than 60 communities throughout Connecticut.
Mr. Rodgerson is a Wilton Economic Development commissioner and certified economic development finance professional. He is the director of the Neighborhood District Economic Development Corporation, a technical assistance and planning consultancy to small business clusters and manufacturers. He has also been active in many local, state and national organizations, including the National Development Council, the Community Capital Fund, and the Coastal Fairfield County Consortium. He lives with his wife and son in Wilton.
These endorsements follow endorsements by Congressman Jim Himes, Fairfield County’s teachers, mental health professionals, first responders, and state, city and town employees.
Information: keith2014.org.