Norwich — Former state Sen. Edith Prague today endorsed Democratic Alderman and mayoral candidate Charlie Jaskiewicz in the Sept. 10 Democratic primary for mayor.

"Charlie is the strongest candidate to be mayor of Norwich, and Norwich needs a strong leader. That is why I am supporting him," Prague, now state commissioner on aging, said in a press release announcing the endorsement.

It is the first major outside endorsement in the mayoral primary between Jaskiewicz and Alderwoman Deberey Hinchey.

"I am humbled and honored to receive the endorsement of someone who has meant so much to so many in Norwich," Jaskiewicz said. "Edith's advocacy on behalf of seniors and all of her constituents has been unmatched. Over my years of public service I have worked very closely with Senator Prague and I look forward to continue working with her as mayor of the great city of Norwich."

Prague, 87, of Columbia, served as state senator in the 19th District that includes Norwich from 1994 to 2012, when she did not seek re-election. She was named in spring by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy to head the new Department on Aging. Prague had held that position under former Gov. Lowell P. Weicker until he abolished the department.

Jaskiewicz is serving his first term on the Norwich City Council after serving eight years on the Board of Education. In 2011 he was appointed to the state Board of Education by Malloy.