Problem gambling: the looming temptations for GOP convention-goers

)

The Connecticut GOP might need a pit boss more than a party boss at its upcoming convention.

Sixty days away from the Republican conclave, which will be held for the first time at a casino (Mohegan Sun), multiple campaigns are already on guard against the unprecedented distractions that could await delegates loyal to them, Hearst Connecticut Media has learned.

Their concerns go far beyond losing one’s shirt.

With contested races from governor on down the ticket, the fear is that some delegates, enticed by neon lights, the jangle of slot machines and green felt blackjack tables, could stray from the convention floor at a most inopportune time and affect the outcome of voting for the party’s standard bearers.

“I think it will be an organizational challenge,” said Heath Fahle, campaign manager for gubernatorial hopeful and Danbury Mayor Mark Boughton. “It will be different.”

Another candidate for statewide office privately expressed similar concerns to Hearst this week, saying that the novelty of holding the convention in mid-May at the casino could be a double-edged sword.

An estimated 1,300 delegates will determine endorsements for the mid-term elections during the two-day conclave in the southeastern part of the Connecticut.

“It’s an honor and privilege to be a delegate,” Jerry Labriola Jr., chairman of the GOP, told Hearst. “To be a delegate entails the responsibility to vote and participate at the appropriate time. I’m confident that the vast majority of the delegates will fulfill that responsibility.”

Republicans booked the Uncas Ballroom for their convention. To his knowledge, Labriola said there aren’t slot machines directly outside the hall.

“There’s a great purpose to this convention,” Labriola said. “There’s uncertainty and drama with regard to the outcome, compared to the coronation of Obama ally (Gov.) Dan Malloy. And, for that reason, I don’t have that concern.”

It will be up to the individual campaigns and their “floor operations” to keep tabs on their delegates, according to Labriola, who said the state GOP isn’t planning to employ any special measures to keep convention-goers in the room.

“We’re not going to put electronic monitoring bracelets on people,” Labriola said. “The job of the floor operation is to whip and hold votes and get delegates to vote for their candidates when the time comes. There’s plenty of time to enjoy the amenities of the beautiful Mohegan Sun.”

Neil Vigdor