New Haven – Randall Furlow, a 47‑year‑old pastor at Waterbury’s Ekklesia Global Worship Assembly and longtime Ward 24 Democratic co‑chair, announced Tuesday that he will seek the open Edgewood alder seat in Ward 24. The special election is set for Nov. 10, following Alderman Evette Hamilton’s resignation effective Sept. 30.
Background and motivation
Furlow has spent the past 12 years serving as one of two co‑chairs of the Ward 24 Democratic Ward Committee. A native of New Haven, he says his work as a pastor—”dealing with all of the needs people come to the church with”—has inspired him to step into public service. “It’s my time to step up into that space and complete what we’ve begun,” he told the New Haven Independent outside the newly opened Trowbridge Recreation Center.
Family ties and independence
Randall Furlow is also the cousin of Aldermanic Majority Leader Richard Furlow, who currently represents the Amity, Beverly Hills, and Westville neighborhoods. When asked whether the family connection could influence his voting, Randall replied, “My cousin is amazing… we’re both strong men with our own opinions. I’m not going to look over to him to see how I should vote.” He emphasized that both he and his cousin respect each other’s independent judgment, noting that such respect is a core principle of democracy.
Key priorities
Furlow highlighted educational equality as a top priority, noting that his four children have attended New Haven schools. He also stressed the importance of supporting families and strengthening community resources, aligning his platform with traditional family values and faith‑based community service.
Election timeline
Hamilton, who first won the Ward 24 seat in 2011 and served as chair of the Board of Alders Finance Committee, announced her resignation on Sept. 30. The city will hold a special election on Nov. 10, marking New Haven’s third special alder election this year. Furlow said he will file his candidacy after Hamilton’s last day in office.
Community response
Local residents expressed mixed reactions. Some praised Furlow’s pastoral background and commitment to family issues, while others noted the potential for perceived nepotism given his relationship to the current majority leader. Furlow addressed these concerns directly, stating, “I’m in here as an alder, if elected, and not as his little cousin.” He added that his focus will be on serving all constituents, regardless of family ties.
What’s next?
Furlow’s campaign will focus on door‑to‑door outreach, town‑hall meetings, and outreach to faith‑based groups throughout the ward. He plans to file the necessary paperwork in early October and will begin fundraising efforts to support his campaign. Voters are encouraged to attend upcoming candidate forums and to review the official filing deadline information posted by the City Clerk’s office.
The special election will determine who represents Edgewood on the Board of Alders for the remainder of the term, with the winner serving until the next regular election cycle.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
