Erin Stewart Suspends Connecticut Governor Campaign Amid Credit Card Misuse Allegations

Republican gubernatorial candidate Erin Stewart has suspended her campaign following allegations of misusing a city-issued credit card during her tenure as New Britain mayor.

Stewart announced her decision on Thursday, stating, "I take the allegations that have been made against me very seriously. And for that reason, I am suspending my gubernatorial campaign effective immediately so that I can focus on addressing those claims." She also pledged to "take accountability for any mistakes" and to "make full and complete restitution to the City of New Britain — my home — for anything that I owe."

The allegations stem from a report by the Crumbie Law Group, commissioned by current New Britain Mayor Bobby Sanchez. The investigation found that Stewart's use of the city-issued credit card "were not isolated incidents but occurred repeatedly over an extended period, nearly a decade, showing a reckless disregard for established policies governing the use of public funds" and could constitute violations of the law.

The report accuses Stewart of using the card for personal expenses, including membership in a social club, clothing, and supplies for her daughter's birthday party.

In response to the report, Mayor Sanchez stated, "This report confirms what many feared. There is a deeply troubling pattern of abuse involving public funds. The findings outlined in this report are outrageous."

The Connecticut State Police have confirmed an investigation into Stewart's conduct.

Stewart's suspension leaves state Sen. Ryan Fazio and former New York Lt. Gov. Betsy McCaughey as the leading candidates for the Republican nomination. Stewart expressed her support for Fazio, stating he has her "full support in becoming our party's nominee."

Reactions from political figures have been swift. State Republican Party Chair Ben Proto praised Stewart for choosing "to put her family first and foremost, as well as the interests, principles, and beliefs of the Connecticut Republican Party."

Connecticut House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora said Stewart had made the right decision and urged Governor Ned Lamont to "take note," arguing the governor "has presided over an administration where a culture of corruption has been allowed to take hold."

Governor Lamont's spokesperson, Rob Blanchard, called the allegations against Stewart "incredibly serious," adding that "it is clear that Mayor Stewart's decision to suspend her campaign was the right one to ensure accountability."

As the investigation continues, Stewart has indicated her intention to step back from public life to address the allegations and make restitution.