Norwich — Incumbent Democratic 46th District state Rep. Emmett Riley easily won the party endorsement Thursday, but challenger, former City Council President Bonnie Hong previously had announced plans to petition for a primary.

The Norwich Democratic Town Committee voted 18-2 to endorse Riley, 47, for what would be his third term representing the district that covers the urban and southern portions of Norwich.

"Fighting for our residents is my number one priority," Riley said after he was nominated by Mayor Deberey Hinchey. "From working for paid family leave and raising to minimum wage to ensuring people have a voice in their workplace, I’ll be a champion for the middle class."

Hong, 69, an active volunteer for the Bernie Sanders presidential campaign, served two years on the City Council and two years as council president, the top city elected official prior to the current mayoral position.

The Norwich Republican Town Committee on Wednesday unanimously endorsed Rob Dempsky — who unsuccessfully challenged Riley in 2014 — for the seat.