August 12, 2008   

41 year old Greenwich Democrat Jim Himes easily defeated his opponent yesterday in the 4th CD primary election contest. Himes, received a whopping 87 percent of the overall votes. Himes, the vice president of a community affordable housing organization, is optimistic about his chances to defeat Republican Chris Shays for his congressional seat in November. "I have two and a half months to speak to the voters of this district and offer them a clear alternative  for a future that looks a lot different than it has in the past  eight years in this country," Himes said.

In Stamford, Himes received 2,754 of the 3,024 votes and Stamford Democrats are enthusiastic about Himes’ victory. Ellen Camhi, Chairwoman of the Stamford Democrats said she was delighted by Himes' victory and is confident in his ability to beat Shays this November. "It's a good jump-start for him," she said. "He's not as well-known as Chris Shays but this victory really puts his name out there."

Above: In Bridgeport, Himes accepts the nomination from 4th CD Dems, 5/12/08

Mayor Dannel Malloy has given his support to Himes since he announced his intention to run against Shays. Malloy applauded the success Himes has had in Stamford, saying he's a qualified candidate who can relate to all walks of life, especially those who are currently struggling during hard economic times."He's a great guy," he said. Malloy added that the unique story of a Peruvian immigrant raised by a single mother in the United States makes Himes a memorable candidate, which he says is needed to defeat Shays.

Rep. William Tong of the 147th District in Stamford echoed Camhi's response. "I think this was a good dry run for Jim and his campaign," he said. "He's shown his campaign is well-organized and well prepared to take on Chris Shays this fall."

Rep. Gerald Fox of the 146th District in Stamford celebrated the victory alongside Himes at the Black Bear Saloon in South Norwalk Tuesday night. He called Himes' success "remarkable." "I can't remember ever seeing a landslide of this proportion," said Fox. "He's proven himself a candidate that Democrats can rally around."

Stamford Democrats Elect Leadership Team

Stamford Democrats in March re-elected their leadership team, electing Ellen Camhi Chairwoman and Donald Donahue Vice Chairman. They also elected the following other officers:  Claire Fishman, Treasurer, Will Fulton Assistant Treasurer, Marggie Laurie Recording Secretary and Corresponding Secretary and Annie Summerville Corresponding Secretary.

Two newcomers have joined the City Committee, Jonathan Rosenbaum and David Stein. Click here to see the complete list of the membership.

Additionally, Jim Diamond and Marggie Laurie to have been re-elected for another term on the Democratic State Central Committee.

Ellen Camhi

Donald Donahue