Despite having two motivated candidates from Newtown seeking support to challenge Fifth District incumbent Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty, Sherman's Republican First Selectman Clay Cope has become the endorsed contender of Newtown's ten-member Republican State Convention delegation.

Residents Matt Maxwell and Bill Stevens failed to win the support of their local delegates. Brookfield resident John Pistone is also seeking an opportunity.

In an endorsement statement, Newtown Delegation chair and Republican Town Committee Chairman Jeff Capeci said: "Newtown Republicans through their town committee entrusted us to endorse the Fifth District candidate who most closely aligns with our principles and offers the best opportunity to win back the district. We have taken this responsibility seriously by thoroughly discussing the merits of each of the candidates. At the end of our deliberations, we are pleased to announce a unanimous endorsement. We want our party to unite behind the best candidate so the convention winner can get started right away - without the impediment of a primary - and work to win in November.

"We had to consider several candidates, two of whom are from Newtown," Mr Capeci said. "Clay emerged superior because he has a proven track record of campaigning, winning elections, and faithfully serving his constituents. As a fiscally conservative first selectman and a successful businessman, Clay has shown that he shares our most important priorities. Clay will go to Congress and fight to reduce federal spending and taxes. We are confident Clay will work hard to represent us in Washington."

"This vote of confidence from the Newtown Delegation is a huge boost to my campaign to win the Republican nomination at the convention and eventually defeat Liberal Elizabeth Esty," said Mr Cope. "I am honored to receive this endorsement and help this community, and every community in the 41 towns in CT5, move forward to a brighter and more prosperous future."