Whitnum Plans U.S. Senate Run In Independent Party

Now we know how Lee Whitnum, who gained lots of attention but little traction in her run for U.S. Senate as a Democrat, plans to continue her candidacy — as a member of the Independent Party of Connecticut.

Whitnum announced her intention in an email to reporters early Friday.

To run with the Independent Party on the November ballot, candidates need to submit 7,500 signatures from registered Connecticut voters by Aug. 8.

The Republicans’ endorsed  U.S. Senate candidate, Linda McMahon, has already filed the papers with the secretary of the state of a possible run with the Independent Party. It might mean she is simply looking for another line on the ballot, running with the Independent Party in addition to the Republican Party.

Control of the Independent Party is up for dispute, with two factions fighting it out. One is led by Mike Telesca of Waterbury, the other is led by Robert Fand of Bethel. (Telseca is being sued by Fand, who contends the party rules were changed illegally in 2010.)