CT Patch Candidate Profile: Mike DeMato 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:
Mike DeMato

What office are you seeking?
RTM- District 4

What town do you live in?
Fairfield, CT (Stratfield section)

Campaign Website
https://www.fairfieldrtc.com

Party Affiliation:
Republican

Occupation:
Advertising and Marketing Professional

Family:
I’m married to Deede DeMato. We are the proud parents of three children; Luke, Claire and Erin. All of them attended Fairfield public schools K-12.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
This is my first time seeking an elected position.

Why are you seeking this office?
I have lived in Fairfield for 23 years and I am concerned with the current super majority the Democrats hold in the RTM. Having a balanced RTM will ensure there is accountability from both parties which will benefit the citizens of Fairfield. If elected I will work across both sides of the aisle to represent the concerns of my constituents.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Keeping Fairfield affordable for all citizens. If elected I will work with my fellow RTM members to ensure our tax dollars are being wisely spent by prioritizing the programs that will have the biggest impact on our town.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
Since I am new to running for office, I will bring fresh ideas based on the feedback that I receive from my neighbors in District 4.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
After speaking with my friends and neighbors they are concerned with the overdevelopment of Fairfield, minimizing taxes (for example, the recent sewer tax increase came as a shock to everyone that I spoke with), ensuring that we smartly invest in our schools and making Fairfield affordable for seniors.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
Throughout my career I have led highly effective teams with a common goal of ensuring we meet our business objectives. I can nimbly pivot to provide alternative solutions if our initial plans do not meet the upfront objectives. I would apply this same approach to working with my fellow RTM members.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Be kind.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
Fairfield has been my home for 23 years, I’m invested in serving my community and I look forward to earning your vote to be your voice on the RTM.