Once seen as a Republican contender for Connecticut governor, former New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart now faces investigations into alleged misuse of city funds.
Erin Stewart became the youngest mayor of New Britain at age 26 and was quickly a rising new star for state Republicans in a decidedly Democrat-leaning state.
Early runs for governor and lieutenant governor followed. While unsuccessful, Stewart was able to continue building her profile in recent years and was finally poised for her moment.
Just two weeks ago, the 39-year-old Republican was the favorite to be endorsed to run for governor at her party’s statewide convention. Now, her future is clouded with uncertainty, accused of defrauding the city she led for 12 years.
“A week ago we were in pole position for a convention victory. Today (we’re) shutting down the (campaign) office and winding down operations,” said John Healy, a senior advisor to Stewart. “To say there is a lot of shock there — the campaign team remains very much in shock.”