Pols Agog Over McKinney’s Stunning 4th District Demur

It’s not so much of a vacuum as a gaping hole in the GOP bench, as Connecticut politicians today come to gripes with Senate Minority Leader John McKinney’s decision not to seek the Fourth Congressional District seat held by U.S. Rep. Jim Himes of Greenwich.

GOP State Chairman Chris Healy: “I think more power to him for having his priorities. It’s refreshing when someone puts something in perspective and decides on the most-important thing. He’s an outstanding guy, a good leader. We have plenty of excellent Republican leaders, elected and non-elected in the 4th. I don’t want to list them because I’d forget somebody. They are people who understand the disaster Jim Himes is. I don’t think there’s going to be a shortage of potential candidates. I think we’ll beat Jim Himes no matter who we nominate. We’re going to have time to find someone and support someone who’ll do a good job and win.”

 Healy conceded that the long-term demographic in the 17-town is leaning toward unaffiliated voters. “We’re not worried because what is happening to our country is going to come down to economics, quality of life and those things that we measure our quality of life by.”

 Healy called Himes the “puppy” of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

 

Democratic State Chairwoman Nancy DiNardo of Trumbull: “After much finger-crossing, sweet-talking and cajoling by the national and state Republicans, it speaks volumes that John McKinney has opted against challenging Jim Himes in 2010. As a freshman Congressman, Jim has focused his efforts on impeccable constituent services in the district, helping to secure funding for programs in the district that help put people back to work and get our economy moving again, and is a leading voice on issues affecting the diverse population he serves. Jim is a first-rate Congressman, and has proven himself to be an adept, tireless campaigner. John McKinney took a long, hard look at how difficult this race would be for him, and I advise any other Republicans who may be considering challenging Jim to do the same.”