The Connecticut Republican gubernatorial frontrunner posted a video after reports she sought a $39,366 partial annual pension despite city rules requiring 20 years in elected office.
Stewart did not address the pension claim, instead blaming Democrats and unnamed Republicans, while rival Ryan Fazio said the issue raised questions of corruption, competence and general-election viability.
The dispute has intensified GOP infighting before the convention and August primary, alongside separate investigations launched by New Britain Mayor Bobby Sanchez into Stewart's former administration.
A candidate sought a pension against city rules. Was it a legal error or a breach of public trust?
She claimed a 'witch hunt,' but what do probes into her record reveal about her fitness for office?
With her former office under criminal investigation, what did this mayoral candidate really know about the misconduct?