Stonington Democrats formally endorse Crouse

Stonington — The Democratic Town Committee on Monday night unanimously endorsed former First Selectman George Crouse to challenge Republican First Selectman Rob Simmons.

In addition, the caucus endorsed Democrat Selectwoman Kate Rotella to run for re-election against Republican John Prue.

The Crouse-Simmons race will be a rematch of the 2015 race when Simmons defeated Crouse, 2,893-2,093. Crouse had served the remaining 11 months of former First Selectman Ed Haberek’s term after Habarek resigned in December 2014.

Crouse said Monday night that he has been asked about running since the 2015 election and recently decided to come forward and run.

“I wasn’t the experienced politician he was. He’s run many campaigns. I was experienced in Stonington,” Crouse said about the 2015 race. “I think I’ve learned a little, and I’m going to give it another shot.”

While Crouse acknowledged that Simmons has done a good job, he said “I think I can do just as good a job or better. I know I can do it. I’ve done it before.”

Crouse said that he’s been upset with what is happening on the national level since last fall’s presidential election and feels there are issues that are important that don’t seem to be of concern to Republicans.

The Democrats also endorsed incumbent Cindy Ladwig to run for town clerk, incumbent Republican Linda Camelio for tax collector and Tim O’Brien, Farouk Rajab and Danielle Chesbrough for Board of Finance.