Republican gubernatorial candidate Oz Griebel is backing the move by entrepreneur Howard Baldwin to bring back the Whalers to Hartford.
The interim step involves generating further interest in ice hockey in the region by holding outdoor contests at Rentschler Field in East Hartford.
Griebel said Wednesday that this type of collaboration is indicative of how he would operate in a Griebel administration, adding, "I have said our next governor needs to be out in the field recruiting businesses and supporting attractions that make Connecticut an appealing destination for residents."
In a statement, he added, "As head of the Metro Hartford Alliance, I know first-hand how important it is for business and community leaders to have a voice with the governor and legislature, and moreover, to feel like their ideas are being listened to and actively considered."