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Comptroller Kevin Lembo Withdraws From Connecticut Governor's Race

State Comptroller Kevin Lembo
Chion Wolf file photo
State Comptroller Kevin Lembo

State Comptroller Kevin Lembo has announced he’s dropping out of the race for governor. Lembo had formed an exploratory committee earlier this year to consider a run for the state’s top office. 

But he’s now decided it’s not a fit, and he'll run again for the comptroller's job. 

"Governors have very broad portfolios of work," he told WNPR. "There are no choices about that portfolio - you have to work on it all. I have a very specific set of issues that I'm passionate about. Those include healthcare and retirement security and fiscal accountability and transparency. And those issues are really seated right here in the comptroller's office."

Lembo’s decision has lead to speculation that Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman may be about to announce a bid for governor.

"I've spoken to the Lieutenant Governor yesterday, let her know of my plans for today," said Lembo. "But I don't know what her plans are, and I guess we'll all learn about those together."

A spokesman from Wyman's office said she is still considering her options, and has made no decision.

Governor Dannel Malloy announced earlier this year he will not run for a third term in office, meaning there will be no incumbent in the 2018 race.

Copyright 2017 Connecticut Public

Harriet Jones is Managing Editor for Connecticut Public Radio, overseeing the coverage of daily stories from our busy newsroom.