Rep. Aundré Bumgardner, a state representative from Connecticut, found himself in legal trouble after being arrested for reckless driving and operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
In the wake of the arrest, Bumgardner, a Democrat, has temporarily lost his leadership roles while waiting for a court date, as Fox News reports.
On Sunday morning, authorities took Bumgardner into custody. The charges against him involve both reckless driving and driving under the influence. His arrest came shortly after a police encounter where he showed visible signs of impairment. The police body camera footage depicted him with "red and glossy" eyes and gave off a noticeable "strong odor of an alcoholic beverage," according to officers.
The arrest unfolded when Bumgardner, who at first claimed he hit an object on the road, was stopped while returning from a constituent event. His vehicle was in poor shape, sporting a flat tire barely clinging to the rim. Officers at the scene mentioned his nervous demeanor alongside notably slurred speech, although he initially denied drinking any alcohol.
Footage from the police body camera revealed the lawmaker struggling with various sobriety tests. His wife, notably, was asleep in the car during the incident. One of the field tests involved him trying, yet failing, the "walk and turn" exercise, along with a test requiring him to balance on one foot.
The ensuing moments saw Bumgardner being handcuffed and taken to the Groton Police Department. Once there, he contacted his lawyer. During the booking process, he expressed discomfort over the police’s body camera, describing the experience as "very invasive."
Following his arrest, authorities temporarily revoked Bumgardner's driver's license for 24 hours. An upcoming court appearance is now on his schedule to address the serious charges he faces. As a result of these developments, Bumgardner was relieved of his leadership and committee duties temporarily.
In a statement released, Bumgardner admitted to and accepted full responsibility for the actions that led to his arrest. Acknowledging the severity of his mistake, he expressed regret while emphasizing his relief that no accidents transpired. Bumgardner remarked, "I am grateful that no one was harmed and that no accident occurred."
Bumgardner, who had been re-elected in 2022, was serving as an assistant majority leader. He also held posts in several legislative committees. This arrest brought an abrupt pause to his active political participation.
His statement extended apologies to his family, friends, and constituents. He conveyed a sincere acknowledgment of his lapse in judgment and the accompanying disappointment caused. Addressing those he serves, he noted, "To my family, friends, colleagues, and the residents of the 41st District, whom I am honored to serve, I sincerely apologize for my actions."
State Rep. Matt Ritter conveyed his disappointment upon catching wind of Bumgardner’s arrest. Ritter described Bumgardner as both dedicated and compassionate, noting that the young lawmaker is taking ownership of his "very serious mistake." Additionally, Ritter expressed his hope for Bumgardner’s journey toward rectification.
While the incident has certainly shaken his political footing, it remains uncertain how it will affect Bumgardner's long-term political career. His public apology indicates an awareness of the seriousness of the incident and a desire to rectify matters.
Bumgardner’s situation is a poignant reminder of the serious responsibilities attached to public service roles. He is expected to fulfill his statement's commitment by ensuring that such a situation does not arise again, both for his constituents' trust and his personal integrity.
