HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) Democratic U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty's decision not to seek re-election has given hope to Republicans that they can finally retake her western Connecticut in November.

National political odds-makers predict the 5th Congressional District will likely remain in Democratic hands.

But JR Romano, the state's Republican Party chairman, contends Democrats and Washington, D.C. observers aren't accounting for the voter unhappiness over Connecticut's continued budget woes and Democratic Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, who is not seeking re-election.

Also, he says the district is ``a pure toss-up'' given the partisan makeup.

Democratic Party Chairman Nick Balletto remains confident his party will continue to control the district, which borders Massachusetts and New York. He says Democratic activists are energized.

Esty made her announcement amid criticism of her handling of harassment complaints in her office