M. Jodi Rell, the second female governor of Connecticut and a prominent Republican figure, passed away on November 20, 2024, in a Florida hospital following a brief illness. She was 78 years old.
From 2004 to 2011, Rell served as Connecticut’s 87th governor. She stepped into the role after Governor John G. Rowland resigned amidst a corruption scandal, thus becoming the first Republican woman to be governor in the state’s history.
During her tenure, Rell made significant strides in ethics reform and bipartisan governance, aiming to restore public faith in the political system. She was instrumental in establishing public financing for political campaigns and in 2009, under her leadership, Connecticut became one of the first states to recognize same-sex civil unions.
In a discussion on political civility with Governor Ned Lamont at the University of Hartford, Rell expressed her disapproval for the current divisive political climate. She voiced concerns about the negativity in politics potentially deterring others from seeking public service roles.
Rell’s political journey began in the Connecticut General Assembly where she served from 1985 to 1995. She was lieutenant governor from 1995 to 2004 before becoming governor. Rell’s full term as governor started with her victory in the 2006 election.
Despite personal health issues, including a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery following a breast cancer diagnosis early in her governorship, Rell continued to fulfill her duties seamlessly.
Former Democratic Governor Dannel P. Malloy commended Rell’s leadership, acknowledging her role in bringing stability, decency, and honesty to state government during a tumultuous period.
Former Mayor of Danbury, Connecticut, Mark Boughton, recalled Rell as “the state’s mother” who brought a maternal instinct to the governor’s office.
Rell was a strong advocate for veterans, military families, and the Connecticut National Guard. However, her final years in office were impacted by the 2008 recession and increasing budget deficits. Even after her retirement in 2011, Rell stayed active in public life and continued to voice her concerns about political polarization.
Rell, a Virginia native, moved to Connecticut in 1969. Known for her composed demeanor and bipartisan approach, she implemented new standards for state contracts and restructured the state’s ethics commission during her tenure.
In honor of Rell, Governor Ned Lamont has ordered all U.S. and state flags in Connecticut to be flown at half-staff until her burial, the date of which is yet to be determined.
