Campaign Notebook: AFL-CIO Endorses Murphy

Senate

Chris Murphy (D) received the endorsement from the Connecticut branch of the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations.

Chris Shays (R) went into the AFL-CIO meeting with low expectations. He elicited laughter when he asked if there was a Republican in the room, reports the Connecticut Mirror. "I'm not saying I'm your first choice, but I sure as hell would like to be your second choice," Shays reportedly said.

Third District

Rosa DeLauro (D): With student loan rates potentially doubling based on what Congress does, DeLauro spoke out in support of keeping rates low. “Eight out of 10 jobs are beyond the reach of workers who lack a post-secondary credential like an industrial certification or a college degree,” DeLauro said in a statement. “So, access to college is hugely important to be able to access this job market and ultimately achieve a living.”

Wayne Winsley (R), on his campaign website, pledges he would not vote for any new taxes.

Fourth District

Jim Himes (D): Deficit reduction may not be a popular talking point for many Democrats in Washington D.C., but Himes addressed the subject and the economy as a whole in a 16 minute interview on News 12.

Steve Obsitnik (R): The election is several months away, but the candidate is gearing up for the day. On Thursday in Westport he’s having a phone bank session for volunteers.

Fifth District

Lisa Wilson-Foley (R) was endorsed by the political action committee Maggie’s List. According to the group’s website, the organization is dedicated to helping “fiscally conservative women” get elected.

Chris Donovan (D) received the AFL-CIO endorsement, and the Connecticut Mirror reports this is a “boost” to the embattled campaign, after the federal investigation into illegal campaign contributions.