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MERIDEN, CT (WFSB) — It’s down to a former teacher of the year recipient and a former mayor in the race for the Congressional seat being vacated by Rep. Elizabeth Esty.
Democrat Jahana Hayes defeated former Simsbury First Selectman Mary Glassman in Tuesday’s Primary Day election for the state’s 5th District seat.
“I’ve been my whole life teaching young kids about the power of our government and what waits for them on the other side,” Hayes said. “We can’t just sit on the sidelines when we see a problem. I’ve never done that.”
Hayes thanked her volunteers on Wednesday and said she’s ready for what the next few months will bring.
“I’m a fighter. I don’t quit and I’m going to fight for the people in this district. I’m a listener and I’m considered with what people want, not what I want,” said Hayes.
She moves on to the general election against Republican primary winner and former Meriden mayor Manny Santos.
Santos defeated Rich DuPont of Watertown and Ruby Corby O’Neill.
“This wasn’t a very easy battle,” Santos said on Tuesday night. “In fact this is only a scrimmage in the overall battle. The battle overall is in November and that’s where we have to win and with everyone’s help we will win in November.”
The Congress eat is currently held by Esty, who decided not to run for re-election after being involved in an office scandal.
It’s a large area to cover, with 41 towns and cities in four counties.
The last time a Republican held this seat was in 2007 by Nancy Johnson.
Channel 3 spoke to Santos one-on-one on Wednesday and he said it’s all what people in the district want.
“If the taxpayers want these failed by CT Democrat policies to be exported to Washington, D.C., then Mrs. Hayes is their candidate. If not, I’m going to try my best to earn their vote,” Santos said.
Both candidates work full time and are running their campaigns. Hayes, who won former National Teacher of the Year, is working as a school administrator and said she might have to take a leave of absence. Santos, who is a veteran and former mayor, works full time as an analyst.
See the complete results here.
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