Farrell Files Paperwork to Challenge Shays Again

Westport First Selectwoman Diane G. Farrell, who is not a candidate for re-election in November, today filed papers to stage a rematch in November 2006 against incumbent Republican Rep. Christopher Shays.

Farrell, who lost by a margin of 52 percent to 48 percent against Shays last November, made the filing with the Federal Elections Commission (FEC) under the name "Farrell for Congress." The move allows her to begin fund-raising.

"The issues are virtually the same today as they were in 2004 - but the problems have gotten worse," Farrell said in a statement.

Among other things, she cited an "out-of-control" fiscal policy, an education policy "that leaves too many children behind," a health care policy "that's left our seniors confused and too many others with no access to affordable care," and a foreign policy "no one can find, identify, or fix."

Shays, meanwhile, will file an FEC report Friday that will show he has already raised about $500,000 for his re-election bid, according to his campaign manager Michael Sohn. Sohn said Shays will finish the second quarter of the year with about $375,000 in cash on hand.

Shays, who would be seeking his 11th full term, has had a number of public battles with his Republican leadership, including his determined push for campaign finance reform that cost him the chairmanship of the Government Reform Committee.

"Chris has a strong record of independent leadership for Connecticut," said Sohn. "This is simply more of the same negative politics as usual, something the voters are sick of. Chris is focused on solving problems and getting things done, just as he always has."

Illinois Rep. Rahm Emanuel, chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, said Farrell has practical experience in financial management and is among the strongest candidates for Congress in the nation. He said the Connecticut race will be a top priority for the DCCC.

Posted July 13, 2005 12:42 PM