Clark drops out of Connecticut's 5th CD race

FARMINGTON, Conn. (AP) — Former FBI agent Mike Clark said Wednesday that he's dropping out of Connecticut's 5th congressional district race and throwing his support to Republican state Sen. Andrew Roraback.

Clark made the announcement from his campaign headquarters in Farmington. It comes as Republicans are scheduled to meet Friday for the state convention to endorse candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate.

"After taking the past week to thoughtfully assess and seriously consider this race, I have reached the conclusion that my campaign has not gained the traction necessary to defeat the Democratic nominee in the election," Clark told his supporters.

While he has trailed the other four GOP candidates in raising campaign contributions, Clark recently made news after filing a federal elections complaint over payments made to former Gov. John G. Rowland for consulting work for a company owned by the husband of another candidate, Lisa Wilson-Foley. She said Rowland was a volunteer adviser to her campaign and the payments were unrelated to her House bid.

Clark, who investigated the case that ultimately sent Rowland to prison, said he's proud of the congressional race he has run, calling it one of courage and character. Rowland has resigned as a volunteer to Wilson-Foley's campaign.

Clark said Roraback "embodies the spirit and independence of the New England Republican." He said Roraback is the only candidate who possesses the attributes to win the politically mixed northwestern Connecticut district and return the seat to a Republican, crediting him with the ability to build consensus and lead effectively.

The 5th District race has attracted a lot of attention because it is an open seat. Democratic U.S. Rep. Chris Murphy is running for the Senate.