Dr. Michael Goldstein clinched the Republican nomination in a closely contested primary on Tuesday, overcoming a sluggish voter turnout that saw only 7% of registered Republicans cast ballots. The low participation contributed to a race that shifted momentum several times throughout the evening.
Initial returns showed Goldstein leading by 8 points. However, as results from additional towns were counted, the race tightened, and at one point, Bob MacGuffie, Goldstein’s opponent, held a slight lead according to Goldstein supporter Joseph Bentivegna.
The decisive moment came when returns from Goldstein’s hometown of Greenwich were counted, delivering 79% of its votes to Goldstein, providing him with a substantial lead.
In a letter issued after his win, Dr. Goldstein expressed gratitude to his supporters and acknowledged the efforts of his opponent. “Yesterday’s victory at the polls was one for the people,” Goldstein wrote, emphasizing that his campaign was about more than just party politics. He pledged to “Heal Connecticut” and “Put a Doctor in the House” to address healthcare issues and other critical concerns.
Goldstein also highlighted the importance of voter participation, noting that the unexpectedly low turnout underscored the significance of every single vote. “We expected lower turnout, but turnout was even lower than we expected,” he remarked, adding, “I’m here to tell everyone that every vote matters, and it mattered incredibly to us yesterday.”
The primary, which Goldstein described as a “Rocky story for the ages,” was a hard-fought battle that he said tested both candidates. He praised MacGuffie as a “worthy adversary” and indicated that the campaign had strengthened their collective resolve to challenge incumbent Democrat Jim Himes in the upcoming general election. Goldstein emphasized that the race was about uniting their efforts against Himes, refining their message, and preparing for the November showdown.
Goldstein’s victory was bolstered by significant support from his hometown and endorsements from local Republican leaders, including Greenwich First Selectman Fred Camillo and State Senator Ryan Fazio as well as Republican National Committee member and Republican leader Leora Levy.
In addition to local support, Goldstein received backing from influential figures across Connecticut, including Oxford First Selectman George Temple and Shelton Mayor Mark Lauretti. Contributions from these and other endorsements helped Goldstein to edge out MacGuffie in key areas, ultimately leading to his win.
Looking ahead to the general election, Goldstein expressed his determination to continue reaching out to voters across the state. “Now the work begins, and we will be taking it to the streets and the people even more now that we are in a general election,” he said. Goldstein called on his supporters to remain engaged and active as the campaign shifts focus toward defeating Himes in November.
Dr. Goldstein concluded his letter by thanking his family, campaign team, and the numerous volunteers who supported his bid for the Republican nomination. He reserved special praise for his son and campaign manager, Jonathan Goldstein, who he credited with making strategic decisions that contributed to the campaign’s success.
As the Republican nominee, Goldstein now faces the challenge of uniting his party and appealing to a broader electorate as he prepares to challenge Jim Himes in the upcoming general election. The campaign, he emphasized, will continue to be about delivering “better solutions” for Connecticut’s future.
