Democrats, Malloy supporters gather

By Bill Cummings

HARTFORD — Democrats are beginning to fill The Society Room in downtown Hartford, milling about and munching on finger food being passed out by waiters. Most have a drink in their hand. But all eyes are on the big-screen televisions displaying vote totals as they come in. At just before 9 p.m., Foley is winning with 5 percent of the vote, but old Democratic hands know the big cities, where they do the best, have not reported yet.

Also on everyone’s mind is a judge’s ruling that Bridgeport could keep about half of their polling places open until 10 p.m. Democrats are generally happy with the decision, but wonder if Republicans will try to challenge the extension in court. If the race turns out to be as close as advertised, that’s a real possibility.

The Society Room is an impressive facility, with various rooms positioned throughout the former bank building. The main ballroom, where tellers once conducted transactions, features at least 50-foot-high ceilings with gold paint and ornate decorations. Stairways wind upwards to a balcony where onlookers can view the scene and Malloy when he eventually steps to the podium to either concede or to declare victory.