Republican Mayoral Challenger Will Remain on the Election Ballot

O'Sullivan, a Republican challenger, announced Tuesday that he was suspending active campaigning due to a recent health scare. He said he must focus on his health at this time. Later in the day, he told Naugatuck Patch at his law office on Church Street that his name will remain on the ballot. 

Following O'Sullivan's announcement, the Naugatuck Chamber of Commerce cancelled its mayoral debate, scheduled for Oct. 29. 

Incumbent Mayor Bob Mezzo, a Democrat, said "the thoughts and prayers of the Mezzo family are with Jim for a speedy recovery. I commend all those who become involved in public service. Ultimately family and health have to be the priority."

Mezzo said he will not change the focus of his own campaign. 

"The most important thing is that there is an individual in our community who is having some health problems, and that is really more important than politics at this point," he said.

Read more about O'Sullivan's decision to suspend his campaign here, and read the reaction of Republican Town Committee Chairwoman Dorothy Hoff here.