On November 20, 2024, M. Jodi Rell, the second female governor of Connecticut and a stalwart of the Republican party, passed away in Florida following a short illness. She was 78 years old. Rell’s tenure as governor was noted for her ethical reforms and bipartisan approach during a time of political upheaval.
Rell took office as the 87th governor of Connecticut in 2004, following the resignation of Governor John G. Rowland due to a corruption scandal. She made history as the first Republican woman to become governor of Connecticut. Her term ended in 2011.
During her governorship, Rell prioritized the restoration of public trust through ethical reforms and bipartisan efforts. Her accomplishments include signing legislation that established public financing for political campaigns. Under her leadership, Connecticut recognized same-sex civil unions in 2009, making it one of the first states to do so.
In reflecting on her political career, Rell expressed concern about the current climate of political polarization and personal attacks. She stated that such negativity might discourage others from seeking public service roles. This sentiment was shared during a discussion on civility in politics with Governor Ned Lamont at the University of Hartford.
Rell’s political journey began in the Connecticut General Assembly, where she served from 1985 to 1995. Before becoming governor, she served as lieutenant governor from 1995 to 2004. Her full term as governor began after her election victory in 2006.
Despite facing personal health challenges early in her tenure, including a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery following a breast cancer diagnosis, Rell continued to fulfill her responsibilities as governor without interruption.
Former Democratic Governor Dannel P. Malloy lauded Rell’s leadership saying, “She steadied the ship and returned a sense of decency and honesty to state government at a time when both were sorely needed.”
Former Danbury Mayor Mark Boughton remembered Rell as “the state’s mother” who brought a maternal instinct to the governor’s office. A longtime resident of Brookfield, Connecticut, Rell was also a strong advocate for veterans, military families, and the Connecticut National Guard.
Rell’s final years in office were marked by the challenges of the 2008 recession and growing budget deficits. Post retirement in 2011, she remained concerned about the increasing political polarization, even as she stayed active in public life.
Rell, a Virginia native, moved to Connecticut in 1969. Known for her calm demeanor, she worked effectively across party lines during her tenure. She revamped the state’s ethics commission and set new standards for state contracts.
As a mark of respect, Connecticut’s Governor Ned Lamont has ordered all U.S. and state flags within the state to be flown at half-staff until Rell’s burial, the date of which is yet to be decided.
