Lamont Names Campaign Manager For 2026 Re-Election Bid

HARTFORD, CT — Governor Ned Lamont has tapped longtime Democratic strategist Francesca Capodilupo to manage his 2026 re-election campaign, his team announced Monday.

Capodilupo, a Connecticut native with nearly two decades of experience in state and national politics, has worked on campaigns across every level of government. Lamont called her “one of the most effective, strategic, and committed political professionals in Connecticut.”

“She knows how to deliver results and build strong coalitions,” Lamont said in a statement. “I’m thrilled to have her leading our campaign as we continue working to move Connecticut forward.”

Capodilupo previously worked on Lamont’s 2010 gubernatorial run and has held senior roles on campaigns for U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar and multiple Connecticut Democrats. Since 2021, she has served as campaign manager and senior advisor to Congressman Jim Himes and to Danbury Mayor and state Democratic Party Chair Roberto Alves. She led Danbury Democrats to a historic sweep in 2023, flipping a long-held Republican seat and weakening GOP control across the local ballot. Alves won reelection again in 2025 under her guidance.

Before joining Lamont’s campaign, Capodilupo was Chief Philanthropy Officer at the Fairfield County nonprofit Person to Person. She also worked in Danbury City Hall as Government Affairs and Communications Advisor.

In a statement, Capodilupo said she is “honored” to return to Lamont’s team.

“Connecticut has made real progress under Governor Lamont’s leadership,” she said. “I’m ready to work hard to ensure we can continue building on that success.”

Capodilupo grew up in a politically active family in Ridgefield. Her mother, Susan Cocco, chaired the local Democratic Town Committee for two decades. She holds a master’s degree in elections and campaign management from Fordham University, where she later taught in the same program.