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Martin, Tong Emerge As Stamford Mayor Candidates

STAMFORD, Conn. — David Martin and William Tong emerged as early favorites for the Democratic nomination for the 2013 Mayor’s race, winning a straw poll conducted by the Stamford Democratic City Committee.

State Rep. William Tong and Board of Finance member David Martin look to be the favorites for the Democratic nomination for Stamford's mayoral race.

State Rep. William Tong and Board of Finance member David Martin look to be the favorites for the Democratic nomination for Stamford's mayoral race.

Martin and Tong were the only two to receive more than 20 votes, the next closest was Moira Lyons, 13. The other nominees include Bill Callion, 12, Frank Fedeli, 10, Eileen Heaphy, 7, Mary Lou Rinaldi, 6, Randall Skigen, 1, and Jeff Curtis, 0.

Skigen was a write-in nominee.

For Martin, who received the most votes, 25, and currently serves on the city’s Board of Finance, the strong showing Tuesday night helped him achieve one of his three New Year’s resolutions: lose weight, tougher gun control and be elected mayor. He added that he already lost a few pounds, will partake in gun control events and then won the straw poll.

Tong, who serves as the state representative for the 147th District, Stamford and Darien, said he felt very good about the result and was appreciative of the support he was shown with 24 votes. Going forward he plans to talk with his family and supporters about a potential run.

Each city committee member was allowed to choose up to three candidates, either from the ballot or write-ins, party Chairperson John Mallozzi said. The votes were in no way binding and the candidates are still eligible to run on their own without the party’s help, he added.

Mayor Michael Pavia, a Republican, is finishing his first term in office and has not yet decided whether or not he will run for re-election.

Republican Jerry Pia, who serves on the city’s Board of Education, has also filed exploratory papers for a possible run for the mayor’s seat.

The Democrats are scheduled to make an official nomination on July 22, though Mallozzi said he hopes the party decides on one candidate earlier to begin the campaigning and fundraising process.

Election Day this year falls on Nov. 5 and the municipal primary day is scheduled for Sept. 10. Primary and nominating petitions need to be filed by Aug. 7.

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