News 12 is continuing to preview different races ahead of the Aug. 13 primary.

Mark Sudol takes a look at the Democratic race for the 140th House District that covers Norwalk's urban cores, Wall Street, West Avenue and South Norwalk.

"I'm state representative Travis Simms from the 140th District in the great city of Norwalk."

Travis Simms says he rose from the projects at Roodner Court in Norwalk to first become a state representative in 2018.

The former professional boxer has been fighting for Norwalk on education and housing ever since.

"I have the experience, I have the history I have the knowledge and more importantly I have the dedication and the commitment to my constituents of Norwalk," said Simms.

"I was a police officer here in Norwalk for 33 years," said challenger Carleton Giles.

Giles has also been the chair of the Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles.

He escaped a bid to oust him from the panel entirely last year.

Giles says his campaign priorities are education, affordable housing and fostering business in the South Norwalk neighborhood.

"I hope that people will remember the work that I've done here. Strong leadership, teamwork and partnership and I look forward to continuing that strong work and my love for Norwalk in Hartford in the general assembly," said Giles.

The two candidates were forced to go to a primary after voting irregularities led to an inconclusive endorsement for the 140th state House seat at a caucus in May.

There were issues with more ballots cast than people at the caucus.

The candidates needed signatures to qualify for the August primary.