Longtime Stratford state Sen. Kevin Kelly announced at the beginning of the year that he was stepping down. Gov. Ned Lamont has nominated him as a Superior Court judge.

Kelly's seat in the 21st Senate District has been a safe one for Republicans for more than a decade. He was first elected in 2010 with 67% of the vote and reelected seven times.

The district covers Monroe, Seymour, Shelton and Stratford and is now up for a special election on Feb. 25.

The candidates met at News 12 in Norwalk – Republican State Rep. Jason Perillo from Shelton, and Democratic Stratford Town Councilman Tony Afriyie.

Also, New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart recently announced she is exploring a run for governor next year. News 12 Connecticut's Rebecca Surran spoke with her on Mornings on News 12.