CT Patch Candidate Profile: Craig Diamond For RTM

FAIRFIELD, CT — The 2025 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Connecticut Patch asked local candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Candidate's Name:
Craig Diamond

What office are you seeking?
Fairfield RTM, District 2

What town do you live in?
Fairfield

Party Affiliation:
Democrat

Occupation:
University professor

Family:
I am married, and we have one son.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
None

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Co-Chair, Lake Oswego Sustainability Advisory Board, 2007-2010

Why are you seeking this office?
I am seeking to represent the citizens of my district in the RTM because I want to serve my community.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
In going door-to-door in my district, I ask every constituent what local issues are important to them, and probably 80% of them have expressed concern about residential and commerical development, and its impact on traffic. In general, my constituents feel that development projects are either too large, not appropriate for the neighborhood, or will make local traffic worse. To address these concerns, if I am elected to the RTM, I will press the RTM to support the town's effort to take advantage of the town's four-year "moratorium" on 8-30(g) projects to plan development projects that meet the economic needs of the town but also make sense within the neighborhoods they're located in.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I believe that what distinguishes me from other RTM candidates is my deep commitment to bridge-building and bipartisanship. As the state Co-Chair of Braver Angels over the last four years, I've demonstrated this commitment by bringing CT citizens together to enhance their ability to communicate and problem-solve across political differences. If I am elected to the RTM, I pledge the following: In the community and in RTM meetings, I will listen to, and respect, all ideas and opinions, even if I strongly disagree with those ideas and opinions; I will strive to disagree with others respectfully and accurately; and I will strive to seek out and recognize the humanity in every person, regardless of how much I might agree or disagree with that person.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
In addition to development and traffic, many of my constituents have expressed concerns about pedestrian safety, taxes, and the rising cost of living in Fairfield. If I am elected, I intend to make these issues priorities.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
My state leadership with Braver Angels bridging political divides; my significant experience with volunteering and organizing, particularly in organizations that serve the poor; my expertise in public policy (I am Adjunct Instructor of public policy at Sacred Heart University) gives me a deep understanding of how government works, and how it can be improved; and my experience creating and managing a food business gave me an understanding of the needs of small businesses.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
My mother used to tell me: shoot for the moon - you may never get there, but at least you know you tried your best.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
The residents of District 2 are my biggest priority. I welcome questions or comments from anyone in District 2, either during my campaign, or after (hopefully) I am elected.