Patch Candidate Profiles: Joseph A. Carfora, East Haven Mayor

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

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

Incumbent Democrat Joseph A. Carfora is running for a third term as East Haven Mayor.

Education.

BS Marketing, History, Southern Connecticut State University

What is your occupation?

Two term Mayor of East Haven, 2019-current

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

I am engaged to Rose Deieso, have two children, Kelli Joseph and two-year-old granddaughter Eisley.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

I was elected to the East Haven Town Council from 2017 to 2019 and elected as Mayor of our great town in 2019.

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?

To build upon the foundation we established four years ago. I am deeply committed to the ongoing development of East Haven, my beloved hometown. I take immense pride in safeguarding its well-being and fostering its growth and prosperity.

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

It is imperative to emphasize the paramount importance of public safety and commitment to safeguarding our community's residents. Ensuring the well-being of our citizens is a non-negotiable priority, and this commitment is reflected in both of our annual budgets. It is my duty to equip our first responders with the necessary resources and tools to effectively carry out their crucial roles in protecting our community. As Mayor, I wholeheartedly pledge my support to our police and fire departments. I am deeply honored and exceptionally proud to announce the endorsement of the Uniformed Professional Firefighters Association of Connecticut, which represents over 3,000 Connecticut professional firefighters, including East Haven’s full-time professionals. This recognition further underscores our shared commitment to the safety and prosperity of our great town.

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

Experience and proven leadership!

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

Upon securing reelection, my commitment remains resolute in driving our community forward while upholding the principles of fiscal responsibility that guide our current actions. In addition to our ongoing fiscal diligence, we will continue to systematically rectify the longstanding infrastructural deficiencies that have plagued our town for decades. Our dedication is palpable, as evidenced by our efforts to revitalize our community. I must commend our exceptional Public Works department for their dedication and efforts in this regard.

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

As Mayor, there has been 4 years of responsible budgeting, enhancement, and fortification of both our Police and Fire Departments. Unparalleled commitment to paying our educators appropriately for the important role they play in the lives of our children. One of my most significant actions has been to repair, revitalize, and grow our recreation department. It is now servicing more families than ever before.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

To be true to myself and my values. In that light, I am always willing to make the right decision, even if it might not be the most politically beneficial. I take great pride in that. I will always put East Haven first.

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

I know I have given East Haven taxpayers my every effort. I enjoy being accessible and available at almost every event in town.