NEWTOWN, Conn. (AP) Democratic and Republican leaders say bipartisan praise for Republican First Selectwoman Pat Llodra's leadership following the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre have boosted her chances to win a third term in November.

Democratic Party Chairman Jim Juliano said in published reports that it would be hard to find a candidate who would do well opposing Llodra. He will not rule out anything until the party caucus, which is set for Tuesday.

The Republican caucus is scheduled for Monday.

The major parties also may schedule primaries after the caucuses if more than one candidate seeks office.

Juliano says some Democrats inquired about running for first selectman before the Sandy Hook killings last Dec. 14. But he says he hasn't heard from anyone lately.

Llodra has represented Newtown in Hartford and before Congress.