Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim is close to having his name on the ballot for the upcoming Democratic primary.

Mayor Ganim says his petition drive has secured the necessary 15,000 signatures, but some are usually rejected, so he needs an extra 5,000.

On the heels of the state Democratic Convention, the mayor is trying to secure a place on the primary ballot in August.

More on this story:
Bridgeport Mayor Ganim one step closer to Democratic primary

He criticized the Democratic Party for endorsing Ned Lamont for Governor, and said Connecticut voters “want somebody who connects with ordinary people".

Mayor Ganim expects to have all of the extra signatures he needs well in advance of the June 12th deadline.