By Jenna Carlesso
Republicans on Saturday unanimously endorsed Jack Orchulli, a former fashion executive from Darien, for comptroller, a seat being vacated by Democrat Nancy Wyman.
Orchulli, 63, was the lone Republican candidate for the seat after Stephanie Labanowski of Bolton dropped out of the running. He is a former business partner of designer Michael Kors and served as chief financial officer of Kors' company. Orchulli also ran unsuccessfully against Sen. Christopher Dodd for his U.S. Senate seat in 2004.
In his acceptance speech, Orchulli said his business background gives him an edge in the race.
"I intend to be an advocate for the taxpayers of Connecticut," he said. "I'll be looking out for their best interest."
Calling himself a "problem solver" and "trouble shooter," Orchulli said he would rigorously pursue ways to reduce state spending.
Though he secured the convention endorsement, Orchulli noted that he still has a hard road ahead.
"It's still going to be a challenge for a Republican to take control of that seat," he said.
(In photo, Jack Orchulli stepped up to the podium to announce he would be running for Comptroller after Stephanie Labanowski dropped out of the race. John Woike/Hartford Courant)