M. Jodi Rell, Connecticut’s second female governor and a Republican who led the state through a period of political turmoil, died November 20, 2024 at a Florida hospital after a brief illness. She was 78.

Rell served as the state’s 87th governor from 2004 to 2011, ascending to the position following the resignation of Governor John G. Rowland amid a corruption scandal. She was the first Republican woman to hold the governorship in Connecticut’s history.

As governor, Rell focused on restoring public trust through ethics reform and bipartisan governance. She championed and signed legislation establishing public financing for political campaigns, and in 2009 Connecticut became one of the first states to recognize same-sex civil unions.

Rell reflected on her time in politics, stating that if given the chance to start over, she would avoid running for office in today’s climate of intense political polarization and personal attacks. She lamented the negativity in politics, expressing concern that the increasingly hostile discourse may discourage others from pursuing public service roles, such as legislative positions, governorships, or even school board memberships. Rell shared her thoughts during a one-hour discussion on civility in politics with Governor Ned Lamont at the University of Hartford, where they addressed a live audience and answered questions from a moderator.

Her political career began in the Connecticut General Assembly, where she served from 1985 to 1995. She then became lieutenant governor, serving from 1995 to 2004 before assuming the governorship. Her full term as governor began with her election victory in 2006.

Early in her governorship, Rell faced personal challenges, undergoing a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite this, she continued her duties without interruption.

Former Democratic Governor Dannel P. Malloy praised Rell’s leadership: “She steadied the ship and returned a sense of decency and honesty to state government at a time when both were sorely needed.” 

Former Danbury Mayor Mark Boughton remembered Rell, a longtime resident of Brookfield, Connecticut, as “the state’s mother” who “brought a maternal instinct to the governor’s office.” 

Rell also advocated for veterans, military families, and the Connecticut National Guard during her tenure.

Her final years in office were marked by challenges from the 2008 recession and growing budget deficits. After leaving office in 2011, she remained active in public life while expressing concern about increasing political polarization.

Born in Virginia, Rell moved to Connecticut in 1969. She became known for her calm demeanor and willingness to work across party lines. During her administration, she overhauled the state’s ethics commission and implemented new standards for state contracts.

Current Governor Ned Lamont ordered U.S. and state flags in Connecticut to be lowered to half-staff until her burial, which has not yet been determined.