Norwich — Political newcomer Emmett Riley was unanimously endorsed by the Democratic Town Committee Thursday as the candidate for the 46th House District seat held for the past 10 years by his wife, Melissa Riley.

Emmett Riley, 43, director of fund development and marketing for Madonna Place in downtown Norwich, said he was "honored and humbled" by the strong support. Melissa Riley decided not to seek a sixth term.

Emmett Riley currently has no Republican opponent in the district that covers the urban and southern sections of Norwich. The Republican Town Committee on Wednesday endorsed Mikel Middleton, but only as a "placeholder" to allow time to find a candidate by the Oct. 26 ballot deadline.

Prior to joining Madonna Place about a month ago, Riley was director of development at the Southeastern Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence. Prior to that, he served as a legislative aide in the state Senate.