John Craven

Jun 10, 2024 | newyork.news12.com | John Craven

Big changes could be coming to Connecticut elections. Gov. Ned Lamont is forming a task force to look at “ranked choice voting.”Instead of picking one candidate, you could rank your picks. Ranked choice voting could be a game-changer for unaffiliated candidates and crowded party primaries, but some voters aren’t sold yet. HOW IT WORKS Ranked choice voting is exactly what it sounds like. When you cast a ballot, you select a first choice – followed by a second and third choice, and so on.

Jun 4, 2024 | newsbreak.com | John Craven |Nicole Alarcon Soares

Connecticut's first Black chief public defender is out of a job. A state commission unanimously voted to fire TaShun Bowden-Lewis on Tuesday after employees complained of retaliation. Bowden-Lewis also admitted to reading employees' e-mails without their knowledge. In a testy hearing in April, Bowden-Lewis was accused of bullying, insubordination and "unfounded" discrimination claims.

Jun 3, 2024 | newyork.news12.com | John Craven

President Joe Biden traveled to Greenwich on Monday. But not for a campaign rally. Instead of pitching voters, he worked to convince big money donors to open their wallets. News 12's John Craven's earlier coverage: BIG NAMES, BIG MONEYTop Democrats – including Gov. Ned Lamont, plus current and past members of Congress – attended the event, hosted by former HBO CEO Richard Plepler. There was also some star power.

May 20, 2024 | newsbreak.com | John Craven

If you’ve tried to get a doctor’s appointment, you know Connecticut doesn’t have enough health care workers. But a new program launched Monday is giving them 50,000 reasons to work in underserved communities like Bridgeport, Norwalk and Waterbury. The program could mean shorter wait times for patients across the state.

May 14, 2024 | newsbreak.com | John Craven

Seltzers infused with THC – the active ingredient in marijuana – just got more expensive in Connecticut. Starting Tuesday, stores must charge an extra $1 tax on each can. It’s part of a sweeping new law aimed at keeping kids away from drinks meant for adults. At stores across Connecticut, THC beverages are growing in popularity. “We have three different producers. We have different flavors,” said Ethan Epstein, who manages Black Bear Wines and Spirits in Norwalk.