Despite GOP leader’s statements, Rowland had “connection$” with the party’s grassroots

johnnyG“…the fact is John Rowland has no connection to the Connecticut Republican Party, nor has he for over 10 years.” That’s the operative quote from Republican State Central Committee Chairman Jerry Labriola in reaction to claims from Democrats yesterday, tying Rowland to the state party.

But nothing says “connection” like checks, such as the 10 totaling about $900 that Rowland has written to local GOP organizations and candidates in recent years. According to filings with the State Elections Enforcement Commission, Rowland, who has listed his occupation from “marketing consultant” to “radio personality,” wrote his most-recent check on March 27, for $100 to the Middlebury Republican Town Committee. Here is the full list of his contributions:

Waterbury Town Committee, $100, June 24, 2009

Jarjura for Comptroller, $100, June 22, 2010. Mike Jarjura, a former Democratic state representative, then mayor of  Waterbury, once called Rowland “Connecticut’s greatest governor, ever.”

Rob Kane for Senate, $100, March 7, 2012.

Van Stone 2010, $100, May 5, 2010. Jason Van Stone briefly organized for a run for Waterbury’s 73rd House District seat. Dennis Odle was the eventual candidate, who was crushed by Democratic veteran Rep. Jeff Berger. Van Stone lost a bid for Waterbury mayor in 2013.

Middlebury Republican Town Committee, $100, April 29, 2012; $100, March 27, 2014; $50, October 14, 2011; $100, March 25, 2013; $100 November 11, 2013, $180, May 15, 2011′

There were no Rowland checks to the state party.