Sherman Republican First Selectman Clay Cope has announced his candidacy for the 5th Congressional District seat.  If successful in his challenge of Democratic incumbent Elizabeth Esty, Cope could be the first openly gay Republican in Congress. 

The 53-year old was elected First Selectman in 2011, having previously served as vice president and marketing director of a QVC fashion label.

Several Greater Danbury area officials were on hand for today's announcement in Danbury and are backing Cope.  They included Mayor Mark Boughton, New Fairfield First Selectman Susan Chapman, Newtown First Selectman Pat Llodra, Darien First Selectman Jayme Stevenson, State Representatives Richard Smith, Jan Giegler, Arthur O'Neill, and Steve Harding, former state Senator David Cappiello and former 5th District Republican candidate Mark Greenberg. 

When Cope first expressed interest in running, Connecticut GOP party chairman JR Romano said in a statement that the Republicans have a variety of candidates including minorities and women. He continued by saying that the Democrats like to play identity politics, appealing to interest groups rather than leading.

Brookfield resident John Pistone is running for the third time for the seat.  Republican Matt Maxwell of Sandy Hook, a small business owner, has also expressed an interest in the position.  Disability advocate Joe Stango said in a statement this week that while he's been considering a run for the GOP nomination for the 5th Congressional District seat, he believes Cope would be an ideal candidate and is throwing his support behind the Sherman Republican.

The Connecticut Democratic Party issued a statement about Cope's announcement.  Connecticut Democratic Party spokesman Leigh Appleby said Elizabeth Esty is a dedicated public servant.  He cited her time on the Cheshire Town Council to her tenure in Congress, as working tirelessly for seniors, veterans, and small businesses.   Appleby added that Esty has been a true champion for common-sense gun safety.  He concluded by saying that they are confident that "the people of the 5th district understand that Elizabeth Esty is the only option if we want to keep our economy moving forward."