Griswold Republican Primary Heats Up
Griswold is gearing up for an important Republican primary ahead of the municipal election, and voters have key decisions to make. Two candidates are vying for the Selectman nomination: the endorsed candidate Rich Canova and challenger Martin McKinney Jr.. This primary is open to all registered Republicans in Griswold and provides an opportunity for residents to have a direct impact on the town’s leadership.
Early voting for the Griswold Republican Primary 2025 will be held at Griswold Town Hall from September 2 to September 7. Voters can take advantage of extended hours throughout the week, with early voting available on Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The primary election itself is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9, 2025, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Registered Republican residents of Griswold can cast their ballots during these hours at the Town Hall to select their candidate for Selectman.
Rich Canova: Fresh Eyes on Griswold Leadership
Rich Canova, the officially endorsed Republican candidate, has lived in Griswold for 40 years and entered politics after retirement. As a member of the Griswold Republican Town Committee, an election moderator, and a participant in Economic Development and Public Health and Safety Committees, Canova brings local knowledge and civic experience.
He emphasizes fiscal responsibility, stating, “The taxes can’t keep going up every time somebody has an idea of something they want to get done.” Canova supports reducing town spending, increasing tax revenue, and attracting more commercial development along the Rt. 164 corridor. He believes housing alone does not provide the tax revenue needed to support schools and town services. Canova is actively walking the town, sharing his positions with voters and promising a new perspective in the Board of Selectmen.
Martin McKinney Jr.: Incumbent Focused on Positive Campaigning
Martin McKinney Jr., the incumbent Selectman, did not receive the Griswold Republican endorsement but is challenging Canova in the primary. He is running a positive campaign, confident in his accomplishments and support from the community. McKinney collected over 100 signatures to secure the primary and continues to engage voters through door-to-door visits.
He highlights the importance of economic development, including the finalization of sewer and water line expansions, and plans to market the Rt. 164 corridor to attract businesses and reduce taxes. McKinney also emphasizes fiscal responsibility, communication, and bipartisan cooperation to achieve the town’s goals.
Municipal Election Overview
The Griswold municipal election will take place on November 4, 2025. Alongside the Selectman race, the Griswold Republican slate includes:
- Wayne Malin for First Selectman
- Kelsey Picco for Treasurer
- Tom Palasky and Matt Bakowicz for Board of Finance
- Mary Beth Malin, Cathy Waselik, and Donald Desrochers for Board of Education
The Democratic slate includes:
- Tina Falck for First Selectman
- Matt Danieluk for Selectman
- Richard Grabowski and Mark DePonte for Board of Finance
- Eileen Ego, Terry Cholewa, and Kim Neilson for Board of Education
Complete registration details are available on the Griswold Registrar of Voters website.
FAQs
1. When is the Griswold Republican primary?
The primary is Tuesday, September 9, 2025, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Early voting runs from September 2 to September 7.
2. Who are the candidates for Selectman?
Rich Canova is the endorsed candidate, and Martin McKinney Jr. is challenging in the primary.
3. Who can vote in the Republican primary?
Any registered Republican residing in Griswold is eligible to vote.
4. When is the Griswold municipal election?
The general election will be held on November 4, 2025.
5. Where can voters find registration and election information?
Information is available on the Griswold Registrar of Voters website.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information from Griswold election documents and candidate statements. It is intended for informational purposes only.
