New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart, a prominent figure in Connecticut politics, has announced she will not seek re-election to a seventh term in office. Stewart, who was elected in 2013 at the age of 26, has become the longest-serving Republican mayor of the city. She made the announcement on Tuesday morning, citing the need for a new chapter in her life and acknowledging the possibility of a gubernatorial run in 2026.

Stewart’s decision comes as she has been widely seen as a potential contender for the governor’s seat. She has been praised for her accomplishments as mayor, particularly her efforts to improve the city’s finances and revitalize its downtown area. However, Stewart has also faced criticism for her political maneuvering and some of her policy choices.

In 2018, Stewart entered the race for governor but later switched her campaign to run for lieutenant governor, ultimately losing to the current governor, Ned Lamont. She has since been rumored to be considering another gubernatorial run, and her recent announcement suggests that she is still seriously considering this option.

Stewart’s Accomplishments as Mayor

During her time as mayor, Stewart has focused on improving the city’s finances, reducing homelessness, and creating more housing. Her efforts have led to a number of notable achievements, including:

• Rebuilding the city’s schools: Under Stewart's administration, New Britain has seen significant investments in its schools, leading to improvements in facilities and educational outcomes.
• Revitalizing the city’s downtown: Stewart’s commitment to downtown redevelopment has resulted in the construction of new apartments, the restoration of vacant buildings, and the creation of new businesses.
• Improving the city’s finances: After taking office during a time of financial hardship, Stewart has worked to stabilize the city’s budget and strengthen its financial position. This turnaround in the city's financial standing has been praised by many, including Stewart herself. She has stated that the city’s balance sheet is “stronger than at any point in my lifetime.”

Stewart’s Next Chapter

Stewart has hinted at a potential run for governor in 2026, but has not yet made a definitive decision. She acknowledged the demands of a gubernatorial campaign, noting that she needs time to make a decision, especially given her young children and her commitment to her current role. Stewart’s experience as mayor, her moderate political positions, and her strong fundraising abilities make her a formidable candidate.

Stewart’s Future

Stewart’s decision to not seek re-election marks the end of an era for New Britain. Her tenure as mayor has been marked by both success and controversy. While she has made significant progress in improving the city’s economy and its quality of life, she has also been criticized for her political maneuvering and her handling of certain issues.

Stewart’s future remains uncertain. She has said that she will make a decision about a gubernatorial run in early 2025. In the meantime, she will continue to serve as mayor of New Britain, focusing on completing her remaining projects and ensuring a smooth transition for her successor. Whether she chooses to run for governor or pursue another path, Stewart’s legacy as a transformative leader in New Britain will likely continue to be debated for years to come.