A360
Key Takeaways✦ Atlas AI
01
Stewart withdrew from Connecticut governor's race.
02
Investigation found $123,018 in undocumented expenses.
03
Allegations referred to state and federal prosecutors.
Atlas AI
Erin Stewart, a prominent Connecticut Republican and former mayor of New Britain, withdrew her candidacy for governor on Thursday, May 14, after the city released an investigation into her use of a municipal credit card. The decision came two days before the state Republican convention, where she had been seen as a leading contender for the party’s nomination. Stewart endorsed state Sen. Ryan Fazio following her exit.
The investigation was commissioned by the City of New Britain and carried out by the Crumbie Law Group. It alleged that Stewart incurred $123,018 in expenses on a city credit card between June 2016 and November 2025 without supporting documentation. The repoSources said the spending included personal items such as clothing, gifts, diapers, groceries and a social club membership, with deliveries sent to her home from various retailers.
The repoSources said the conduct reflected a pattern that violated public trust and the standards expected of an elected official. Stewart served as mayor from 2013 to 2025.
City referrals and state police investigation
New Britain’s current mayor, Bobby Sanchez, a Democrat, said the findings had been referred to the chief state’s attorney and the U.S. attorney for the District of Connecticut. The Connecticut State Police confirmed they have initiated an investigation after the state’s Division of Criminal Justice received a complaint.
In a statement, StewaSources said she intended to make full restitution to the City of New Britain for any amounts owed. The investigation described the spending as undocumented and said it covered purchases across multiple categories of personal goods and services.
Political fallout ahead of the GOP convention
Stewart’s withdrawal reshapes the Republican field just ahead of the party’s convention, where delegates were set to choose a nominee to challenge incumbent Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont. Stewart’s endorsement of Fazio immediately elevated his standing in the contest.
Connecticut Republicans and Democrats are scheduled to hold primaries in August. Party leaders are expected to weigh how the investigation and any legal developments affect the race in the weeks ahead.
