by Christine Stuart CTNewsJunkie
After four years at the helm of the Senate Republican caucus, Sen. Kevin Kelly, R-Stratford, was abruptly replaced Friday in favor of first-term Sen. Stephen Harding, R-Brookfield.
Kelly, an attorney, served as the leader of the minority caucus for four years, endeavoring to maintain unity within the twelve-member group, which encompassed both moderate and more conservative lawmakers. His responsibility involved facilitating consensus among caucus members on legislative matters frequently advocated by the 24-12 Democratic majority.
“I have been incredibly honored to serve as the leader of this caucus and will work collaboratively with Sen. Harding going forward,” Kelly said in a statement. “Our caucus is made up of hard-working individuals who love our state and are ready to fight for it. Together we continue to stand up for policies that make our state more affordable for all people by reducing tax burdens on poor, working- and middle-class families, creating opportunities in education and jobs, and increasing health care access and affordability.”
It’s unclear why he was ousted after a meeting today, but Republican columnist Kevin Rennie suggested on his blog that it may have to do with the firing of Chief of Staff John Healy.
The last time a Senate Republican leader stepped aside was in 2007 when former Sen. Louis DeLuca admitted to asking a man with mafia-ties to beat up his granddaughter’s husband because he thought she was being abused. A six-member panel, three Senators from each party, was appointed to determine whether to recommend a censure, reprimand, or expulsion. DeLuca ended up resigning before the committee made its final recommendation.
Meanwhile, Harding will take over the caucus as it heads into a reelection cycle.
“As leader, I will make sure our caucus remains unified and focused on standing up for all people, offering solutions and showing a better path forward,” Harding said in a statement. “From strengthening public safety, environmental, education, and health care policies to preserving fiscal discipline, we will work to give residents the stability and predictability they deserve. I thank Sen. Kelly for his leadership and look forward to the challenges ahead.”