New London - Labor and political figures from around greater New London endorsed former Stamford Mayor Dan Malloy for governor Monday.

New London police and fire unions, members of the region's legislative delegation and local officials from New London, Montville, Groton and Waterford all added their endorsements to Malloy's bid for the Democratic nomination.

Malloy, who served 14 years as mayor before leaving office last year, is part of a large field seeking the party's nod, and faces a strong challenge from former Senate nominee Ned Lamont, who has opted out of the state's public campaign finance system to more freely raise and spend money.

Still technically exploring a run for the Democratic nomination, which he sought in an unsuccessful primary in 2006, Malloy is expected to make his candidacy official on Wednesday in Hartford.

Endorsing Malloy on Monday were state Reps. Ernest Hewett, D-New London, Betsy Ritter, D-Waterford, Kevin Ryan, D-Montville, Tom Reynolds, D-Ledyard, and Diana Urban, D-North Stonington, and state Sen. Andrea Stillman, D-Waterford.