In one of the more-bizarre photo ops (Dixon photo) in recent memory, House Minority Leader Themis Klarides, R-Derby, and Gov. Dannel P. Malloy just broke bread together for the benefit of Capitol reporters. Their half-hour sit down didn’t stop action in the cafeteria, a semi-glorified high school scene in which lobbyists, staffers and lawmakers mingle freely.
During 20 minutes of actual business, both parties seemed to be talking past each other. Malloy said he’s solely responsible, according to the Constsitution, in offering a two-year budget to the General Assembly. Klarides said that’s fine and dandy, but that she and Senate Minority Leader Len Fasano, R-North Haven, who was unable to make the scene, want a say in how the projected $120-million deficit in the current budget, which runs through June 30, will be dealt with.
The event was called after Klarides and Fasano complained that the GOP minorities in the House and Senate may get shut out of budget negotiations.
For the record, Klarides had a grilled cheese and water while Malloy had a diet Snapple, a Philly cheesesteak and a bag of chips.
Malloy said that Republics should submit suggestions to him. Then, speaking to reporters by himself outside the caf, Malloy confirmed that the latest round of rescissions will be announced this afternoon.