Current Mayor Harry Rilling, who was first elected 12 years ago, announced earlier this year he would not seek another term, saying he wanted to spend more time with his family.

Now, four candidates are vying to take his place.

Rilling has endorsed fellow Democrat Barbara Smyth, the current Common Council president. Smyth has been elected to the Common Council four times and is a retired Norwalk Public Schools teacher.

On the Republican ticket is Vinny Scicchitano, a local business owner for more than 40 years. This is his second time running for mayor after challenging Rilling in 2023.

Two unaffiliated candidates are also in the race. John Kydes, who served on the Common Council for 10 years, says he’s running out of concern for what he calls “overdevelopment” in the city.

Erik Vitaglione says he entered the race to represent working families — noting that about 40% of Norwalk households make under $75,000 a year, and 57% of renters are considered cost-burdened.

The polls are open on Election Day across the state until 8 p.m.