The Big Get: Candelora will endorse Ryan Fazio Thursday. Senate Republican Leader will join in supporting colleague.

State Senator Ryan Fazio will showcase the biggest endorsement of the campaign for the 2026 Republican nomination for governor on Thursday when he snags the endorsement of House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora. The Northford Republican’s endorsement will be accompanied by one from Fazio colleague Stephen Harding, the Senate Republican Leader.

Candelora’s early boost is notable because he has carved out a position as the most effective House minority leader since his mentor and local predecessor, the late Bob Ward, held the job. Candelora has learned through preparation and savvy observation how to influence legislation while leading his outnumbered caucus. Members trust his judgment—a boon for Fazio. This will benefit Fazio as he introduces himself to local activists and potential delegates.

Harding, who has struggled to turn the Senate Republicans into an effective force, will join Candelora Thursday. The Harding endorsement, expected to be followed by most of the other members of the other nine Republican senators, puts the Brookfield Republican’s chief of staff, controversial John Healey in a bind. He is a longtime loyalist of the other leading Republican candidate for governor, Erin Stewart.

Harding, Fazio and a handful of others overthrew former Senate Republican Leader Kevin Kelly in February 2024 after he booted Healey from his perch as chief of staff. Remorse has been their most common emotion. The quiet caucus lost a seat in the 2024 election when Avon Republican and Healey ally Lisa Seminara was defeated for a second term.

Fazio and Candelora made an effective team in blunting the worst instincts of the two Democrats leading the legislature’s controversial energy committee. The endorsement from Candelora will be a big deposit in the Fazio favor bank and a seal of approval that potential delegates to May’s nominating convention will note.

Published September 3, 2025.