BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — Bridgeport swore in most of the newly elected city leaders Friday, including city clerks, sheriffs, and councilors - except one - the mayor.
According to Bridgeport’s city charter, the swearing-in ceremony of all elected officials is to take place on Dec. 1 after each election cycle. But this year, it’s a little different. No one will be sworn in as mayor, although incumbent Joe Ganim will be the emcee.
“There is a very thick thick black cloud hanging over Bridgeport,” remarked Bridgeport City Councilor Jorge Cruz.
It’s a cloud of uncertainty and alleged election fraud. A judge ordered a new mayoral primary to take place in January, leaving Bridgeport’s corner office in lame-duck status.
“We technically don’t have a mayor,” said incoming city councilor Jazmarie Melendez.
Still, Ganim will serve as master of ceremonies.
“He should not be the master of ceremonies,” said Cruz. “It’s an insult to everybody in the city of Bridgeport. It’s an insult to me. I would not like to see Joe Ganim do any kind of ceremony. What he needs to do is stay away from city hall, period,” added Cruz.
Among those taking the oath of office Friday will be city councilor Eneida Martinez, who, along with city employee Wanda Geter, was accused of absentee ballot fraud. And city councilor Maria Pereira, who was arrested on Election Day for allegedly assaulting an elderly woman.
“I’m going to continue to name corruption, I’m going to continue to call out anyone who is not serving the best interests of the people,” said Melendez.
At just 25 years old, Melendez is set to become the youngest ever woman city councilor in Bridgeport.
“I think we are very close to a new chapter for our city. I think we need younger people who are thinking differently,” she said.
As Bridgeport swears in new leaders, the city is also launching a new investigation.
Ganim’s office told FOX61 the city will hire an independent outside party to investigate Geter, the woman at the center of the absentee ballot scandal.
“Internally Labor Relations has been reviewing and compiling relevant evidence; and will provide such materials to the outside investigator…” Ganim’s office said.
This does not sit well with Ganim's main challenger for mayor, John Gomes.
“It’s now costing the city of Bridgeport, I believe, in excess of $15-20,0000 while she remains on paid leave. And now what they want to do is put another cost and burden on our taxpayers when the evidence is clear,” he said.
Geter has been on paid leave since September. As a public union employee, the city says she is entitled to a hearing of due process. She has still not been charged with any crime.
Matt Caron is a reporter at FOX61 News. He can be reached at mcaron@fox61.com. Follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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