"There is much work to do this legislative session, and I am committed to continuing to work to create jobs, grow the economy and balance our budget."
Sen. Andrew Maynard
After five terms in the state senate, Andrew Maynard announced he will not seek re-election. The Democrat from Stonington is recovering from two head injuries in the last two years and questions have been raised about his ability to serve.
"I want to thank everyone for their prayers and well wishes, and I am grateful to live in such a beautiful and supportive community," Maynard said in a statement released by Senate Democrats on Wednesday. "I have made the decision to not seek re-election. There is much work to do this legislative session, and I am committed to continuing to work to create jobs, grow the economy and balance our budget."
Maynard suffered a fall at his home on July 21, 2014, which resulted in a traumatic brain injury. He won re-election three months later. Last month, he was involved in a two-car crash and suffered a concussion. Maynard appeared at the Capitol for the start of the 2016 legislative session but reportedly did not stay for Gov. Dannel Malloy's State of the State Address.
Since his first injury, Maynard has declined requests for interview. In a statement after the recent car crash, Senate President Martin Looney said Maynard participated in 92 percent of all votes last year and "has ably and dutifully represented his district and his principles in the Senate circle."
Last week, a local police official confirmed to The Day the department was seeking an independent review of the car crash case due to the "amount of interest surrounding the case."
The Day also reports former Groton Mayor Heather Somers will announce plans to seek the Republican nomination in Maynard's Senate district on Wednesday evening.
