Democrat Kaitlyn Shake defeated incumbent Republican State Rep. Laura Dancho in the tightly contested 120th House District race representing Stratford.
Shake, currently serving her third term on the Stratford Town Council, received 6,926 votes to Dancho’s 5,871, according to unofficial results from the Secretary of the State’s Office.
“I am humbled and grateful for securing thousands of residents’ support in a very heated election,” Shake said in a statement. “As the dust settles in Stratford and across the nation, tonight’s victory proves that Stratford wants leaders who get results and public servants who value the people they serve over party differences. After every election, let’s remind ourselves that we share more commonalities than differences. We must come together. Recognizing that collective bond will strengthen our community and create a future for our children and, in the present, comfort for our elderly and create more affordability for our taxpayers.
“Thank you to my campaign team, our dedicated volunteers and staff, and all who hit the ground running on Day One to spread our campaign’s message of a Stratford that works for everyone. My dedication and commitment to this town are unwavering. I will continue working with all of our community leaders and elected officials to support and build a stronger Stratford that works for everyone, regardless of their background.”
I believe her win was a referendum on a lack of trust in the Republican Party because of the party’s loyalty to the convicted felon.