Betsy McCaughey Joins Republican Race for Connecticut Governor

A new contender has entered the race for Connecticut’s governorship in 2026. Former New York Lieutenant Governor Betsy McCaughey, 77, announced her intention to seek the Republican nomination to challenge incumbent Ned Lamont. McCaughey’s declaration came via a Facebook post shortly after 10 a.m. on Thursday, where she stated that “Connecticut needs a fighter.”

In her announcement video, McCaughey outlined five central points for her campaign. She aims to reverse the state’s recent housing law passed in December, halt property tax reassessments, limit property tax increases to 2%, exempt most senior citizens from property taxes, and lower energy costs by eliminating the public benefits charge while banning offshore wind generation projects.

McCaughey currently serves as a columnist for the New York Post and is a commentator for the right-wing digital media company Newsmax. She has criticized Governor Lamont, labeling him an “anti-American radical leftist.” Over the past few weeks, she has engaged with Republican committees across various towns in Connecticut, including Southington, Watertown, Torrington, Norwalk, Mansfield, and Stamford.

Republican Field Expands

McCaughey is the third Republican to announce a campaign for governor, following state Senator Ryan Fazio of Greenwich and former New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart. Other candidates include Timothy Wilcox from Norwich and Scott Merrill, a three-time gubernatorial candidate from Norwalk. Additionally, former state representative Harry Arora of Greenwich, who ran for state treasurer in 2022, has reportedly formed a committee to explore a run for governor.

On the Democratic side, Governor Lamont is facing a challenge from Josh Elliott, a state representative from Hamden. Lamont, who was first elected in 2018, is seeking a third term. He has highlighted the state’s progress in reducing pension liabilities, implementing middle-class tax cuts, safeguarding abortion rights, and investing in education and childcare.

As the election approaches, the dynamics of the race are expected to shift with the involvement of these candidates, each bringing their perspectives and policies to the forefront of Connecticut politics.