This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.

Kelly Wants Primary for Dem Town Clerk

With the Democratic Town Committee (DTC) failing to support her 2013 incumbency bid, Branford Town Clerk Marianne Kelly intends to force a Democratic primary in September to get her name on the ballot.

Kelly wants to take the Democratic candidacy away from Pam Knapp, who was endorsed by majority vote at the July 17 caucus (see more on the vote in the related story, “Democrats Back Campbell, Storm” http://bit.ly/154WlTC). Knapp was also highly recommended in caucus nominating speeches from Catherine Jackson and former Branford town counsel Penny Bellamy, both praising Knapp’s work ethic, experience and leadership qualities. A third DTC member also commented favorably on Knapp’s behalf.

Kelly said she chose not to attend the Democratic Caucus on July 17, but if she had, “…so many people would have been in that room for me.”

She added she was surprised to learn that Alice Lambert had nominated her during the caucus.

“I was very surprised. I know that she feels what’s been done was unfair,” Kelly said.

Kelly told The Sound her last interaction with the DTC was her interview for candidacy with the nominating committee. Since then, no one has contacted her to confirm or deny what she says have been many rumors, including one that she took a month off.

“I work all the time. Somebody told me I took a month ‘off:’ I had my hip replaced, and I worked from home. It’s so hurtful, it’s ridiculous,” said Kelly.

As for the DTC, “…to this day, these people never called me,” said Kelly. “It’s interesting to see the people who supported me before are actually listening to this stuff; colleagues and even friends. I know who I am and what I do. If I’m meant to be in the job, I’ll win the election. If not, I’ll go town clerk somewhere else. I want to work here.”

 The Branford Town Clerk is elected to a two-year term. During the past four consecutive elections, Kelly noted, “…I’ve been the first or second highest vote-getter for each election.”

Kelly intends to collect the 300 petition signatures needed to allow her to begin filing for the primary with voting authorities. The primary would take place Sept. 10, 2013.

“I have had an outpouring of support,” Kelly said, adding, “…I’ve given tirelessly to this town; and happily will again.”

Asked why she would primary, Kelly answered, “…why would I not? This is my job. Did anybody think I wouldn’t primary?”