Bridgeport now has two convicted felons serving in public office, following the election of Ernie Newton to City Council Tuesday.

The other is Mayor Joe Ganim.

Newton was first elected councilman 33 years ago, and he thanked his East End constituents for the second chance Wednesday. He says his supporters were able to forgive him and relate to him because many have family or friends who have been in prison.

The former state senator served five years in prison for a 2005 conviction on bribery and tax evasion charges. Then he was convicted again two years ago of campaign finance fraud, and he could return to prison if he loses his pending appeal.