Former New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart speaks publically for first time since questions into city...

Added: 2026-05-16

[00:00:00]We're back now with what could be a pretty big moment in the race for governor. Former New Britain mayor and Republican candidate Erin Stewart spoke publicly for the first time tonight since reports raised questions over how she used a city credit card. NBC Connecticut political reporter Mike Savino tells us what she had to say.

[00:00:19]They have been crushing us for years.

[00:00:21]And you know who's standing in the way of them now? Me. And they're scared.

[00:00:26]Erin Stewart dismissed questions about her spending while she was mayor of New Britain during a rally tonight in Bristol. It comes just days before the Republican convention where she's seeking the party's endorsement for governor. But she's been under scrutiny for her use of a city credit card. NBC Connecticut has obtained 10 years of expense reports showing she purchased clothing, makeup, and a membership to the Hartford Club. Stewart told 500 supporters she needed to review those documents before addressing the allegations. Erin, are you saying that No, we're only going to answer questions for Stewart refused to answer questions from the media. Instead, she says these reports show Democratic Governor Ned Lamont and Republican opponents are worried she'll win. Because they don't want truth. They want outrage. They want headlines before facts. They want political damage. They want personal vengeance. That is not how I lead.

[00:01:20]>> we'll have to wait till Saturday to see if delegates still have concerns, but supporters who were here today remain confident that she will get the party's endorsement. I mean, do you feel like she said enough to address those concerns at least through the convention? I think she has and I think she will the entire weekend. I've been able to meet Fazio as well.

[00:01:39]Um and I think he's a very bright individual. I just don't think he's ready yet to be a governor. Stewart's looking to fend off state Senator Ryan Fazio and Betsy McCoy for that endorsement, but one expert thinks she'll have to be more forthcoming. And so, this is a missed opportunity certainly for Aaron Stewart if it turns out that these allegations have some substance to them and they dog her the rest of the way.

[00:02:06]>> From Bristol, Mike Savino, NBC Connecticut News.