Democrat Bill Russo Enters Race for Middletown Mayor.

Director of Public Works Bill Russo is running for mayor of Middletown. Russo, who has worked for the town’s government for 35 years, faces council member Mary Bartolotts in the contest for the Democratic nomination to succeed incumbent Dan Drew.

“To me, good government and Democratic values are all about making sure people get their money’s worth for the taxes they pay. We need to keep taxes down while making sure we have great parks, safe roads and streets, solid infrastructure and strong schools. It takes experience to make that happen, and I’ll put my experience and work ethic up against anyone who wants to run for this office,” Russo declared in a written statement.

Middletown’s Democratic politics have been more fractious than usual. A Democratic town committee challenge saw Drew supporters and others ousted on a winter night early last year. A chunk of delegates to last year’s Democratic state convention declined to support Susan Bysiewicz, a local Democrat, for governor or lieutenant governor.

Barlotta ran into some headwinds early in her campaign for mayor when her husband’s ugly Facebook posts came to light. Sebastian Barlotta issued the standard “to anyone who was offended” apology. Mary Barlotta disavowed his nasty sentiments and the view of the world they suggest.

Geen Thazhampallath, director of parking for Middletown, is also seeking the Democratic nomination for mayor.  He was a registered Republican until 2018. He was chief of staff to former mayor Sebastian Giuliano.