Former Connecticut Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman has died at the age of 80, as confirmed by Governor Ned Lamont's office. In her honor, Lamont has ordered U.S. and state flags on state government buildings to be lowered to half-staff.
Governor Lamont stated, "Nancy Wyman was a good friend to me, a good friend to Democrats, and a good friend to the people of Connecticut. She was a tireless advocate for all things Connecticut, and in particular she made healthcare for all her personal crusade, working to develop policies that ensure everyone in Connecticut has access to affordable, quality healthcare services."
He added that Wyman was known for her ability to connect with people, often seen walking long parade routes in her trademark stiletto shoes. Lamont expressed his condolences to her family, including her husband Mike, their children, and grandchildren.
Wyman had a long career in Connecticut politics, starting with the Tolland Board of Education before serving in the state House of Representatives in 1987. She was the state comptroller from 1994 to 2010, becoming the first woman elected to that position in Connecticut.
Elected lieutenant governor in 2011 on the Democratic ticket with former Governor Dannel Malloy, Wyman served until 2019. She played a significant role in implementing the Affordable Care Act in Connecticut, advocating for healthcare and social services.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) remembered Wyman as a politician whose personality sometimes masked her effectiveness, stating, "Her kindness, charm, and signature wit could sometimes disguise her immense policy and political acumen. But few people got more done for more people in need in our state than Nancy."
The cause of Wyman's death has not been disclosed.