The Waterbury Times|Oct 31, 2026

CONNECTICUT — A developing incident involving Gov. Ned Lamont is drawing attention after video circulated by the Reese on the Radio Facebook page appears to show the governor striking a reporter’s camera during a press interaction.

According to the footage, a woman identified as a reporter with the Connecticut Sentinel was recording the governor using what appears to be a smartphone when she asked him a question concerning his campaign manager.

The exchange initially appeared cordial, with Lamont seemingly receptive to the question. However, the interaction took a different turn when the governor interrupted the exchange and asked, “What is this about?”

Moments later, Lamont extended his hand and appeared to strike the camera, interrupting the recording.

The reporter appeared visibly surprised by the interaction and immediately objected, telling the governor that he could not do that.

The incident raises questions about the boundaries of interactions between public officials and members of the press, particularly when reporters are asking questions about matters involving an elected official’s professional and political associations.

Questions About Press Access and Accountability

The incident comes during a closely watched Connecticut gubernatorial election season, with Lamont campaigning for another term against Republican challenger Ryan Fazio.

Public officials routinely face difficult questions from reporters. While officials can decline to answer questions, challenge their premise, or end an interview, physical interference with a journalist’s recording equipment raises a separate set of concerns.

At this stage, several details remain unconfirmed, including the reporter’s full identity, the precise circumstances surrounding the exchange, and whether the governor’s office has issued a response.

The Waterbury Times is working to establish additional details and obtain comment from the governor’s office and the reporter involved.

The footage was first brought to wider attention through the Reese on the Radio Facebook page.

This is a developing story. The Waterbury Times will update this report as additional information becomes available.