CT Patch Candidate Profile: Emma Barron 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:
Emma Barron

What office are you seeking?
Representative Town Meeting (RTM) for District 6

What town do you live in?
Fairfield, CT

Campaign Website
https://www.fairfielddemocrats.com/rtm-candidates/emmabarron

Party Affiliation:
Democratic

Occupation:
Student Affairs Professional at Yale School of Management

Family:
I'm the youngest in my family, and I'm lucky to have incredible role models to look up to—my dad, Denis; my mom, Kim; my brother, Denis; my sister-in-law, Gillian; my sister, Briana; and my sister-in-law, Krystal. I also have two amazing nephews, Leo and Bodie, and a third niece or nephew on the way!

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No one in politics, but my dad works for the New Canaan Department of Public Works.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I have not ever held a public office.

Why are you seeking this office?
I am running because I have deep passion for government and advocacy, a genuine love for Fairfield, and a unique perspective as the youngest DTC candidate. As a lifelong resident of District 6, I care deeply about our community and understand that residents here often feel overlooked - I want to help change that. As a young woman in a space often dominated by older voices, I’m committed to offering a fresh, inclusive perspective. With leadership experience and a drive to serve, I want to ensure that people of all ages feel heard, represented, and empowered in local decision-making.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
I believe it is an oversimplification to name one single issue as the most pressing. The concerns of my constituents vary widely, reflecting the richness and complexity of our population. Through conversations and door knocking in District 6, I’ve heard some of the residents’ top concerns include housing affordability and development, education, and cost of living, among others. To address these, I’ll be their voice, asking tough questions and gathering information to better understand our challenges and opportunities. While some issues extend beyond local control, I’m committed to learning, collaborating, and finding solutions that serve our community. I may not have all the answers yet, but I’m eager to work hard to figure out what we can do together.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
One key difference between me and other candidates is that I bring the perspective of a newer generation. While I may not have the same length of experience, I see that as a strength, not a weakness. I'm not tied to the way things have always been done, and I'm coming in with an open mind, a willingness to listen, and a genuine commitment to fresh ideas. I believe that long tenure can sometimes lead to complacency or a resistance to change, and I think our town can benefit from both continuity and renewal.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
One of my main goals is to stay responsive and current. While I know a lot about Fairfield and District 6, I also recognize there are perspectives and concerns I haven’t personally experienced. That’s why I believe it’s essential to listen, to stay in touch with what people are actually facing and what matters to them right now. I want to hear directly from constituents so I can help take action that meets the moment and reflects the real, lived needs of our community.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
In both my current role and my past involvement, I’ve been responsible for understanding the needs of a broad and diverse group of people, working closely with them, and advocating on their behalf. My work has required strong interpersonal skills, thoughtful communication, and a deep commitment to service. I’ve spent the majority of my professional life developing these skills, listening, problem-solving, and collaborating, and I believe they’re essential to being an effective representative on the RTM. I also feel proud to share that at Miami University, I was awarded the Engel Prize in Political Science; given for outstanding promise in the field of law and public affairs to one graduating senior in the Political Science Department.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
“Move a muscle, change a thought.” My dad shared this with me when I was a homesick freshman in college, encouraging me to take an active role in creating my new life there. That simple idea, that you can shift your mindset and situation, has stayed with me ever since. It’s carried me through difficult moments and continues to surprise me with how true and powerful it is.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I’ve launched my own Instagram account (@emmaelected) dedicated to sharing local information and making government more accessible. I want to show residents that local government is where democracy truly happens, and everyone deserves a seat at the table. I am going to work to help my constituents feel informed, welcomed, and empowered to participate.