A former longtime Democratic lawmaker, Steve Mikutel, has endorsed Republican Heather Somers in her bid for the 18th District state Senate seat.

"Heather is a proven leader who will make a difference in Hartford and someone who can provide Connecticut with a much needed new direction," said Mikutel in a press release.  "She will be a strong voice for fiscal responsibility. She understands that Connecticut's tax and spend approach to government has been a failure and that it is driving people and jobs out of our state."

Mikutel has been described as "an independent thinker" and "moderate maverick" during his 11 terms as a state representative and as a former first selectman in his hometown of Griswold.

Over the summer, he considered making a run for the 18th District seat being vacated by Democrat Andrew Maynard, and said then: "I'm not actively seeking the job, but I am considering it, and for one reason only, and that is that the state of Connecticut is in crisis. ... I know I am one of the people who could help us to get out of this mess."

But Mikutel said then he doubted party leaders would endorse him. 

Heather Somers welcomed the endorsement. 

"I am honored and humbled to accept the endorsement of such a highly respected public servant with a track record of crossing party lines to do what is right for eastern Connecticut," she said. "Our campaign to change Hartford is building momentum every day as more Republicans, Independents and Democrats join our effort to save our state."