Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont has appointed a new general counsel following the departure of Natalie Braswell, who has been named interim chancellor of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system. Braswell, who previously served as the governor’s general counsel, will lead CSCU for a one-year term while a nationwide search for a permanent chancellor is conducted, set to begin in fall 2026. Governor Lamont praised Braswell’s leadership, stating, “Natalie is a steady hand. Time and again, she has stepped into challenging situations, tackled tough issues head-on, and delivered results when the stakes were high.” ([connecticut.news12.com](https://connecticut.news12.com/2026/05/27/board-of-regents-appoints-natalie-braswell-as-cscu-interim-chancellor/MKAufXZmMYFsoA1PEiYSX?utm_source=openai))
In response to Braswell’s transition, Governor Lamont has appointed a seasoned attorney from the state’s Department of Public Safety to serve as his new general counsel. This appointment continues the governor’s practice of selecting experienced legal professionals for key advisory roles within his administration. Previously, in March 2021, Lamont appointed Nora R. Dannehy as general counsel. Dannehy brought a wealth of experience from both the public and private sectors, including her tenure as Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut and her role as Deputy Attorney General in the Connecticut Attorney General’s Office. ([portal.ct.gov](https://portal.ct.gov/governor/news/press-releases/2021/03-2021/governor-lamont-names-nora-dannehy-as-general-counsel?utm_source=openai))
The role of general counsel is pivotal in providing legal advice to the governor and his administration, ensuring that state policies and initiatives comply with legal standards. The appointment of a public safety attorney underscores the administration’s focus on legal expertise in public safety matters, reflecting the state’s commitment to addressing complex legal challenges in this area.
As the new general counsel assumes their duties, they will be instrumental in advising the governor on a range of issues, including legislative initiatives, executive orders, and policy development. Their background in public safety law is expected to provide valuable insights, particularly in areas related to law enforcement, emergency management, and public safety regulations.
This appointment is part of a broader pattern of strategic personnel decisions by Governor Lamont aimed at strengthening the legal and administrative functions of his office. For instance, in July 2024, Lamont appointed Matt Brokman as his chief of staff, recognizing Brokman’s extensive experience in legislative affairs and policy development. ([ctpublic.org](https://www.ctpublic.org/news/2024-07-02/connecticut-lamont-chief-of-staff-matt-brokman?utm_source=openai))
These appointments reflect the administration’s ongoing efforts to build a team of experienced professionals capable of navigating the complex legal and policy landscape of Connecticut. As the new general counsel begins their tenure, they will play a critical role in shaping the legal framework that supports the governor’s agenda and the state’s public safety initiatives.