Backer Bests Crudo, Wins 121st District

Democratic State Rep. Terry Backer retained his seat in the 121st State Assembly District by more than doubling the votes of Republican challenger Joe Crudo, 5919 to 2231.

"It's a testament to the work Terry Backer has done for 20 years," campaign manager Joe Gresko said of the long-time state representative. "He goes to bat for [his constituents] every time he's in Hartford."

Crudo, a former Stratford Town Council chairman who now serves on the town's school board, said he was "hugely disappointed" in the outcome of the election.

He said he knocked on 5,201 doors and did not expect to win, but still thought the final tally would be more competitive.

"I'm not bitter," said Crudo, before wishing his best to Backer. "I'm upset, disappointed with the margin."

Crudo said he was leaning toward not running for the seat next go around.

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Backer, Crudo Vie for the 121st District (Posted Tuesday)

A former Stratford Town Council chairman and current Board of Education member, Republican Joe Crudo is challenging incumbent Democrat Terry Backer in this year's election for the 121st District in the State Assembly.

Backer has served as state representative for the last 19 years, during which time he's dually served as Long Island Soundkeeper. Backer's district consists of Lordship and Stratford's South End. Backer was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2010, but said he felt compelled to run for re-election this year.

"I feel capable," Backer told Stratford Patch in January. "It's been my life's work to make Connecticut and Long Island Sound the best place for residents."

Crudo's supporters cite his commitment and devotion to Stratford as exemplary and worthy of a state representative seat.

"His long service as a baseball coach has given hundreds of young people the skill set necessary to achieve success in life," wrote Stratford resident Kenneth Seckas in a letter to the editor.

"[Crudo's] track record of lifelong service to the town and his burning desire to stop over-regulating, over-spending and over-taxing so we can encourage new business, sustain existing business and improve our overall quality of life are some of the reasons for my support," added Ed Scinto.