Gov. M. Jodi Rell toured the lower Valley Friday, stumping for local Republicans in Ansonia, Derby and Oxford.
Rell first endorsed First Selectman candidate David Haversat Friday morning. Haversat is challenging Democratic incumbent Mary Ann Drayton-Rogers in November.
Haversat said he was proud Rell came to Oxford to endorse him.
She was greeted by more than 100 supporters who turned out at the Colonial Tavern. “I’m overjoyed she’s here,’’ said Haversat. “It means much to me that she’s here today.’’
Haversat thanked the governor for her support in several town projects including a $750,000 grant to build the new senior center.
“We really do appreciate everything the governor has done for Oxford,’’ Haversat said.
Rell then appeared at a fundraiser at Studio 275 in Derby at 5 p.m. to support Republican incumbent Mayor Anthony Staffieri.
Staffieri is being challenged by Democrat Dan Foley, Jr., a retired Derby educator.
“The campaign is going great, I can’t thank my supporters enough,” Staffieri said. “Gov. Rell is an iron lady who is guiding the state through tumultuous times.”
Ken Hughes, Staffieri’s campaign manager and president of the Board of Aldermen, said 80 tickets were sold for the event at $50 per ticket.
Rell posed for photos and made brief remarks in support of Staffieri.
“I support candidates that I like and I respect, and I certainly like and respect Tony,” Rell said.
Rell was also scheduled to appear Friday at J.J. Sullivan’s on Wakelee Avenue to endorse Judy Larkin-Nicolari, a Republican who is challenging Mayor James Della Volpe in Ansonia.
