Which 3rd Ward candidate was more surprised?

Newcomer's defeat of incumbent was not a predicted outcome.

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By Ed Richter, Staff Writer 1:31 AM Sunday, November 8, 2009

Middletown residents voted for change with the election of three new faces in the Middletown City Council races, including the election of the youngest-ever council member.

One of the biggest surprises Tuesday, Nov. 3, was in the 3rd Ward race, with newcomer Joshua Laubach defeating incumbent Councilman Tony Marconi.

“Obviously I was shocked,” Marconi said. “(Laubach) was probably as shocked that he won as I was that I lost.

“It’s unbelievable. A young, inexperienced unknown newcomer won against an experienced incumbent with proven knowledge, leadership and a record of success. I never thought it would happen. I’m still dazed.”

Knight Goodman, longtime political observer and veteran campaign manager, said he, too, was surprised by Marconi’s defeat.

“I thought he had a fair chance,” Goodman said. “But when he tried to dance around a question during a TV (Middletown) debate, that made him look weak.”

Goodman also said there were a lot of strong supporters for Laubach, and noted that the rancor on the national level is steeping into local politics.

On Saturday, Marconi agreed with Goodman on that point.

“There’s a mindset across the country and it’s come to Middletown for voters to oust incumbents at any cost and that cost is huge,” Marconi said. “There’s a mentality out there and it’s here in Middletown to oust incumbents. Voters want change but change isn’t always a good thing.”

Marconi said he loved the experience of being on council and will miss it. “The people have spoken and I have to accept it until there’s another opportunity. Don’t rule me out for a future run. It’s going to be a big adjustment for me,” he said. “I wish him (Laubach) all the best and success because I want the city to succeed.”

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