Connecticut Democrats say "Let Them Eat Pizza"

It's nine months away from the mid-term elections and the "Pizza vs Pocketbook" debate has officially boiled over. This week, the CT GOP launched a biting digital campaign titled: "Let Them Eat Pizza" here, targeting what they call the "tone-deaf" priorities of the Lamont Administration.

The tension stems from a state tourism blitz featuring new highway signs that proudly declare, "Welcome to Connecticut - the Pizza Capital of the United States." The GOP's ad suggests that while Governor Lamont is busy picking pepperoni fights with New York, Connecticut residents are struggling with the highest electricity rates in the nation and a crushing cost of living. "Lamont is out of touch," says Republican State Chair Ben Proto. "He is channeling his inner Marie Antoinette, essentially saying, "Let Connecticut eat pizza.'"

In the battle for the Connecticut Governor's office, Lamont is aiming for the history books. He is seeking to be the first to win three consecutive four-year terms in the modern era. However, the path to third term is getting crowded.

Lamont could face an August primary challenge against State Rep. Josh Elliott (D-Hamden), who is campaigning on a platform of higher taxes on the wealthy. A multi-millionaire from Greenwich, Lamont is a formidable incumbent. He spent more than $60 million of his own money on various campaigns since 2006.

The Republican field is heating up. State Sen. Ryan Fazio, of Greenwich, and New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart, are working to find enough small donors to qualify for public funding ($3.2 million for the primary and $15 million for the general election). Meanwhile, former NY Lt. Governor Betsy McCaughey, of Greenwich, is expected to join the fray soon.

Connecticut Democrats are punching back by shifting the focus toward Washington, DC. They argue that Connecticut's affordability crisis is being sabotaged by federal interference. They point to tariffs that have raised the cost of essential consumer goods, expiring subsidies that will lead to a spike in Affordable Care Act premiums, and the shutdown of offshore wind farm programs, which Democrats claim were the key to lowering regional energy costs in the long run.

Between the Lines: Let the pizza fight begin. Governor Lamont hopes you are satisfied with a slice of the "best pizza in the world," when, after paying utility bills, most residents don't have any dough left.

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