Patch Candidate Profile: Donna Laich, RTM, District 7

BRANFORD, CT —The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Branford and there are plenty of local races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Branford Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Democrat Donna Laich, 72, of Branford, is seeking reelection to the RTM, District 7.

Education.

Bachelor of Science (Education), Masters (School Psychology), 6th Year (Psychology)

What is your occupation?

Retired from Public Education with 35 years as a teacher/coach/school psychologist

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

I live in Branford with my husband Bryan who is also a retired educator. He spent 37 years with New Haven Public Schools and then went on to work with special needs students to fulfill IEP hours. I have two grown children, one living in Arizona and the other in New Haven.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

I currently serve as the clerk of the RTM, representing the 7th District. I have served in this position for the past 6 years.

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I am passionate about how government serves the people. I feel that local government is the closest to the people and where everyone's voice should be heard.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Public Safety, Rising Tides, and Fiscal Responsibility are at the top of the list for my constituents. I intend to advocate for those issues and any other issues of importance to the constituents of District 7 and all Branford residents.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

Susan Dahill and I are running in District 7 to earn 2 seats on the Branford RTM . Together, we will help build a Democratic majority in order to provide the checks and balances needed for successful governing. My goal is to work in a bipartisan manner for the good of all the people of Branford.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

I believe that we need more balance on the RTM to provide checks and balances in our government.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

I plan to listen to what the constituents in District 7 want and need from their government and to act on their behalf.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

My job in public education as a school psychologist demanded excellent collaboration skills. I worked daily to align parents, teachers, students, and administrators in working together to meet the individual needs of each student. That skill set is necessary for the duties required of a successful RTM representative.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Treat others as you would like to be treated.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am truthful and trustworthy, and I always keep my word.