State GOP Files Appeal In Bysiewicz Case

HARTFORD (AP) – The Connecticut Republican Party has filed an appeal, challenging a superior court judge's decision last week that found Secretary of the State Susan Bysiewicz legally qualified to hold the office of state attorney general.

State GOP Chairman Chris Healy says the party filed the appeal on Tuesday.

He says Judge Michael Sheldon's ruling that Bysiewicz has actively practiced law for at least 10 years is “precedent-setting” and should be reviewed.

Bysiewicz's lawyers argued that her six years in private practice and 11 years as secretary of the state should count toward the 10-year requirement. Bysiewicz had sought the legal ruling.

Bysiewicz accused the GOP of trying to cast doubt on her candidacy less than two weeks before the Democratic convention, and deliberately attempting to keep her off the ballot.