This report was updated at 1 pm on August 4 affirming the subject's political party status.

A week after he secured 11 votes from among more than 300 local Republicans who packed a caucus at Edmond Town HallThe Newtown Bee he is pulling out of a three-way GOP primary race, opting to gather the required number of qualified signatures to be placed on the November municipal election ballot as a standalone candidate for first selectman., Andrew "Andy" Clure told

Mr Clure said participating in the Republican caucus was a great experience as he was able to meet many people one on one, as well as addressing the entire crowd.

"Afterwards I had discussions with my family, my supporters, and several [others] in the Newtown community about a primary and the election in November," he said. "What I hear from these groups, as well as from residents around town, is that most of the issues we face are the same regardless of whether you are a Republican, a Democrat, or unaffiliated... our current mill rate, the impending property revaluation, the impact for Newtown from the state budget, the condition of our roads in Newtown, how to manage the continued decline in enrollment in our school system, the completion of our community center, to name a few."

Mr Clure said he firmly believes that local residents will cast their ballots in the November municipal election "based on the candidate who they feel can lead Newtown through these tough issues - not based strictly on party lines.

"For this reason I have decided to forego a Republican primary in September and focus my energy on the November election," he said. "I have completed all the paperwork including the necessary signatures to enter the race as a petitioning candidate not party affiliated."

Mr Clure said he and his support team are "highly motivated to continue our activity in the community, meet face-to-face with as many Newtown residents as possible and begin to develop strategies to combat the issues we all face."

Mr Clure told The Bee he has not changed his Republican party affiliation, that he is opting to run independently, and is not planning to solicit a running mate.

"I feel that the decision should remain with the residents of Newtown to choose a balanced leadership team," he said. "All the candidates running for selectman are very qualified. I can partner with any combination of the candidates selected by our voters to lead Newtown forward. My track record co-chairing the Newtown Community Center Commission, and on the Board of Education proves I can manage and work successfully with a diverse group."

Mr Clure's departure from the primary leaves current Selectman Will Rodgers and his running mate Jeff Capeci, to compete against current Legislative Council Chair Mary Ann Jacob and her current councilman running mate Neil Chaudhary.

Republican incumbent and endorsed Town Clerk Debbie Aurelia Halstead will face primary competition from current Social Services Director Ann LoBosco.