Tooker’s Next Campaign: State Comptroller

Jen Tooker is running a new race.

Westport’s former 1st Selectwoman today announced her candidacy for Connecticut state comptroller. The state’s chief financial officer also serves as an independent watchdog, responsible for protecting taxpayers and ensuring accountability across state government.

Jen Tooker

Tooker — a Republican who did not run for re-election in November after serving one term, following previous stints as second selectwoman, an on the Board of Finance, Board of Education and Conservation Commission — suspended her campaign for governor last September.

The current comptroller, Democrat Sean Scanlon of Guilford, was elected to his 4-year term in 2022. He is running again. The election is November 3.

In announcing her comptroller run, Tooker said:

For Connecticut families and businesses, every dollar matters right now: daily expenses, energy costs, and property taxes, they all add up.

The comptroller’s job is to make sure the state treats your tax dollars with the same discipline you must use. I’m running to be the independent watchdog who protects taxpayers, demands answers, and makes sure the government earns back your trust.

This office exists for one reason: to protect taxpayers. As comptroller I will tell the truth about our finances, shine a light on long-term liabilities before they become crises, and make sure every dollar collected from families and businesses is tracked and accounted for.

Her campaign announcement says:

With nearly 25 years in business and 14 years in elected office, Tooker brings a rare combination of private-sector financial expertise and hands-on government leadership to the role. As First Selectwoman of Westport, she managed annual budgets and made calculated long-term financial decisions — including ensuring Westport’s retiree medical benefits (OPEB) were fully funded using transparent reporting and oversight, along with a taxpayer first discipline.

As 1st selectwoman, Tooker helped create StartUp Westport. She received support from Cliff Sirlin, president of the public/private venture for entrepreneurs and innovates. He said:

Jen understands how decisions made at the state level affect the business world. In Westport she communicated clearly, embraced the business community with innovative programs and didn’t hide behind bureaucracy. She’s transparent, data-driven, and relentlessly focused on outcomes. That’s exactly the kind of financial leadership Connecticut business owners need right now.

Tom O’Dea — deputy minority leader and state representative for New Canaan, Darien and Stamford — added:

As 1st Selectwoman, Jen didn’t just talk about fiscal responsibility, she delivered it. She balanced budgets, controlled spending, and protected taxpayers while delivering exceptional services. Jen will bring that same discipline to Hartford — asking the hard questions, following the money, and making sure families aren’t stuck paying the bill for waste and mismanagement.

Click here for her campaign website.