By Brian McCready
Milford Bureau Chief
MILFORD — State House Speaker James A. Amann, D-Milford, announced his exploratory campaign for the governorship Thursday night and received a hometown hero’s welcome from 300 supporters.
At the conclusion of Amann’s speech, the popular spiritual "This Little Light of Mine" blared over the loudspeaker, and the beginning of the lyrics were amended to "Amen Amann."
"Join me on this journey. Let’s have some fun and shake it up a bit," Amann told his supporters.
City Hall was overflowing with residents and officials, and a few even carried signs saying "Amann for Governor."
A handful of protesters against Amann’s candidacy gathered in front of City Hall. The protesters, who have dubbed themselves "Crush Amann," parked a hearse in front of City Hall carrying a sign saying Amann’s chances were "DOA."
City Clerk Alan Jepson, a former three-term Democratic mayor, recalled that when Amann first got involved in politics in 1983 he knew Amann was someone special. Jepson said he told Amann he may be able to do more on the state level by helping everyone.
"I called him ‘governor’ many years ago," Jepson said. "I predict he will become governor."
House Majority Leader Chris Donovan, D-Meriden, said he and Amann have teamed up the past three years to enact tangible improvements for residents. He said the duo worked to expand health care for youths and seniors and cut the state income tax, and Amann brought the Hollywood film industry to Connecticut. Donovan said the legislature has included funds for stem cell research and education initiatives.
Amann thanked his supporters, but singled out his family. He said his wife, Terri, is the "real speaker of the house," and as soon as he comes home he loses his power. He recalled how his wife has overcome numerous health battles, and has been "my rock."
"I have much more to give," Amann said. "I have the energy and passion to (make Connecticut even better.)"
While Amann was primarily surrounded by friends and family, Edward Anderson of New Haven was present with a few friends who protested Amann’s announcement. Anderson said he was representing the progressive part of the party who won’t support Amann because he voted against civil unions, and defied the party by supporting U.S. Sen. Joseph I. Lieberman, I-Conn., who did not receive his party’s support.
"My dog has more of a chance of getting elected then Jim Amann," Anderson said.
Former National Basketball Association standout Charles Smith, who played for the New York Knicks, said he was proud to endorse Amann because of all he has done for after-school programs. "Jim’s done so much for kids," Smith said.
State Rep. Richard Roy, D-Milford, said with the tenor of today’s politics, it makes sense for a candidate to declare early.
"At least Jim’s one day ahead of everyone else," Roy said. "I look forward to helping him become the fourth Milford man to become governor." The others were Robert Treat, Jonathan Law and Charles H. Pond.
"It’s great to have a Milford boy grabbing for the brass ring," added Democratic Town Chairman Richard Smith.