Walker "Disappointed But Not Surprised" by Mallozzi Announcement

First Selectman Jeb Walker said he will not discuss his political future until the town's 2011-2012 budget is completed, and said he wishes Rob Mallozzi had waited to announce his intention to seek Walker's job. In an e-mail sent to Patch Monday afternoon, Walker said he is "disappointed but not surprised" by Mallozzi’s announcement.

“I have worked hard over the last four years as First Selectman to put the Town’s needs first,” Walker said in the statement. “I wish Mr. Mallozzi could have waited a few days to do the same.”

Walker, a Republican, who is serving  his second term as First Selectman, is also the Chair of the Board of Finance. 

“We are in the middle of our annual budget deliberations and the business of the Town is far more important than personal political aspirations,” Walker said in his statement. “His announcement at this time is premature and demonstrates his focus on his political agenda. My focus continues to be completing the difficult work of developing our Town budget.”

Mallozzi, who is also a Republican, has been a member of the Board of Selectmen since 2007. He for First Selectman on Monday morning.

Walker said Mallozzi’s announcement would “subject the people of New Canaan to an extended campaign.” A caucus to determine the Republican Party’s candidate will be held in July.

“Many people are weary of the nearly constant campaigning at all levels of government,” Walker said. “The people of New Canaan expect their elected officials to tend to the business of the Town and not their political careers.”

In 2007,  Walker challenged incumbent First Selectman Judy Neville for the job he currently holds.