With Republican incumbent Jen Tooker declining to run for a second term, the first selectperson’s race is wide open this fall.
The Democratic Town Committee interviewed 4 “strong” candidates for the position. The Nominating Committee chose 2 to recommend to the full Democratic Town Committee.
But they released only one name today.
Kevin Christie — a current Board of Education member — will participate in the DTC’s meeting this month, when members make an “informal vote of endorsement.”
The other candidate has decided not to participate. However, he or she “is free to seek the nomination” in July, DTC chair Michelle Mechanic said in a press release this afternoon.
Kevin Christie
“I am overjoyed that so many great candidates came forward,” Mechanic said.
“We narrowed it down to 2 incredibly qualified candidates, who boast both municipal and private sector experience. The ultimate decision is in the hands of the full committee. As a valued nominating committee member stated, ’70 voices is far better than 9.’
“Furthermore, we are returning to the process of forming an early consensus, which has proved successful both here in Westport and across the state. We all look forward to hearing from Kevin Christie at our next meeting.”
Christie was elected to the Board of Ed in 2021. He chairs its Policy Committee.
A graduate of Union College, with an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, he spent more than 15 years in investment banking, and corporate development and strategy. He is now a stay-at-home dad, raising twins.
Other volunteer efforts include the Coleytown Elementary School PTA, and coaching in the Westport Soccer Association.
The Republicans have not yet met to discuss their candidate. Tooker announced last week that she is running for governor.