March 4, 2010 – Stamford Mayor Dan Malloy, a potential candidate for Governor, today released the following statement in response to news that Connecticut has missed out on the first round of “Race to the Top” funding:

“Anyone who says they’re surprised by this news hasn’t been paying attention to what’s been going on in Connecticut.  In the last month alone we’ve seen our state lose out on millions in federal funding, first for transportation and then for health information technology.

“What’s going on here?  Did this have something to do with the 120 blanks in our state’s application?  There was a time not long ago when Connecticut didn’t finish last in anything – now we’re not even in the game.

“We shouldn’t let anyone tell us that it has to be this way, or that change isn’t possible.  As the former Mayor of a large city I know what’s involved in fighting for every penny that’s available. We secured millions in funding for transportation and affordable housing.  How?  By going to Washington – in person – and fighting tooth and nail for every dollar.

“I’ve said this before and I will say it again – we need new, experienced leadership in Connecticut that understands we are in competition every day, for every dollar.  Connecticut can do better.”