CT governor’s race: Lamont leads Fazio in exclusive poll

(WFSB) - An exclusive poll conducted with Sacred Heart University and CT Insider shows Governor Ned Lamont with nearly 50% support compared to Republican challenger Ryan Fazio’s more than 29%, if the general election were held today.

Lamont’s support increases with age, according to the poll. Fazio draws consistent support among both men and women.

Gary Rose of Sacred Heart University said voters will begin paying closer attention to Fazio after the primary.

“Right now it’s early to judge the viability of his campaign even though he’s substantially behind the governor, but it’s going to get closer. I have no doubt,” he said.

Lamont pointed to the state’s fiscal record in making his case to voters.

“Republicans left us chronic deficits. Republicans never paid down one dime of pension debt. We have done just the opposite, we have passed eight balanced budgets in a row,” he said.

Fazio said voters are concerned about the economy and want a change.

“This is going to be a competitive race, everybody knows it, but the only poll that matters to me is when voters go to the ballot box on election day,” he said.

Some voters, including, Ethan Incremona of South Windsor, say they are focused on taxes and healthcare costs heading into the election.

“Where does it go from here. And does it continue to keep going up. And if that’s the case, then how is everyone going to survive,” he said.

The poll also shows that Lamont has a commanding lead over Democratic challenger Josh Elliott. Elliott could do well with younger and more progressive voters.