Groton — State Rep. Christine Conley, D-Groton, was unanimously endorsed Monday by Democratic delegates of the 40th District state House seat, while Lauren Gauthier on Tuesday unanimously received the Republican party’s endorsement for the seat.

Both conventions were held by web conferencing.

Conley, an attorney and board-certified workers’ compensation specialist, is seeking her third term in the district, which encompasses parts of Groton and Ledyard.

“I am delighted to receive the unanimous nomination of the Democratic Party for the 40th General Assembly district,” Conley said in a statement. “It has been a very busy time during this pandemic. I have been helping so many constituents with their health care concerns, assisting with unemployment claims, and helping small businesses prepare to reopen. I am proud to have the opportunity to continue to serve the residents of Groton and Ledyard for another term.”

Gauthier, a Groton Representative Town Meeting member and special projects manager at an oyster farm who recently received her master’s degree in public administration, is seeking her first term.

Noting the looming budget shortfall, Gauthier acknowledged in a statement that there will be tough decisions to be made, but feels optimistic that Connecticut can make substantial structural changes that will leave the state on a better track for generations to come.

“It’s time to dig deep, focus on what’s working and leave what’s not behind," she said. "We have seen that change can happen overnight, and now is the time to use the most advanced technology, the best data available and focus on outcomes for our residents. It’s time we set aside partisanship and prioritize people. That means having leaders that won’t just toe a party line.”