Patch Candidate Profile: Tom Keefe, RTM District 3

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 Tom Keefe, 50, of Branford, is running for RTM District 3 Representative.

Education.

Doctor of Education, MA in International Relations, MAT in Social Studies Education, BA in History

What is your occupation?

Teacher, Author, Community Leader

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

I have two grown children, TJ and Grace

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

n/a

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

I have served on the Colorado First District Judicial Retention Commission, the Jefferson County Historical Commission, the Providence AAAG Truth Report Committee, and the Warwick Diversity Committee

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?

When you are fortunate enough to live in a great community, it's important to give back and ensure the community continues to support a high quality of life for all its residents.

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

The most pressing issues facing my constituents are safe roads, air quality, water quality, and I intend to work with my government and community leaders in Branford, SCRCOG, and Hartford to ensure a high quality of life for our community.

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

We have a strong community, but we can be stronger, safer, and greener. We need vision and leadership, not status quo.

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

n/a

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

I am interested in helping to determine the best use for public property that becomes available in Short Beach.

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

I have significant experience working with civil servants and politicians on policy development at the local and state levels.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Leave the world a better place than you found it.

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

I look forward to being your voice for our community. I would love to hear from you about your ideas regarding making Branford safer, stronger, and greener.