State Sen. Tony Hwang Announces Bid For Fairfield First Selectman

FAIRFIELD, CT — State Sen. Tony Hwang, a five-term Republican member of the Connecticut Senate, announced on Tuesday that he is running to become Fairfield's new First Selectman, replacing the late Bill Gerber.

Hwang is running for the office, which is currently held by Acting First Selectwoman Christine Vitale, in what he refers to as "the upcoming special election."

A special election for the First Selectman's post has not yet been established, though local Republicans are mounting a petition drive to force one, and have an email address for residents who seek more information.

"The sudden passing of Fairfield’s First Selectman has left our town with a profound sense of loss and an urgent responsibility: choosing a leader who can guide, heal, and unite our community," Hwang said in a statement announcing his intention. "I am announcing my candidacy for First Selectman in the upcoming special election."

Read More:

• Fairfield First Selectman Remembered As Dedicated Public Servant In Celebration Of Life Event
• Fairfield First Selectman Bill Gerber Dies, Family Says They Are 'Heartbroken'
• Fairfield Mourns Loss Of First Selectman Bill Gerber
• No Movement On Filling Of Late Fairfield First Selectman's Post
• Vitale Seeks To Complete Term Of Late Fairfield First Selectman Gerber
• Fairfield Selectmen To Discuss First Selectman Vacancy

In a statement to Patch, Vitale said she anticipates taking over the role on a permanent basis to finish out Gerber's term, which expires in November 2027, and she welcomes the challenge from a potential special election.

She and Gerber were elected to office together in 2023, and he designated Vitale as Acting First Selectwoman before his hospitalization and death.

"We’re following the Charter and the next step is for the designated Democratic electors to vote," Vitale said. "They will be meeting on August 25 to fill the vacancy in the First Selectman office. If I am selected on Monday, I will be honored to continue to serve the Town as First Selectman. After that vote occurs, if residents want to support a petition for a special election, I will welcome the opportunity to once again earn their support."

Hwang said that as a Fairfield resident for more than 25 years, he believes "every one of us deserves a voice and a choice in selecting our next leader."

He did not elaborate on what this candidacy might mean for his current state senator post. In addition to Fairfield, Hwang's post in the 28th State Senate District also represents Bethel, Easton and Newtown.

"I believe deeply in our town’s strength, resilience, and shared future," Hwang said. "For over two decades, I have been honored to serve our community as a PTA representative, a member of the Representative Town Meeting, a State Representative, and now as your State Senator. In each of these roles, I have fought for strong schools, public safety, fiscal responsibility, reliable transportation, environmental protection, and a high quality of life for all residents. My guiding principle has always been simple: people before politics, and results before rhetoric.

"As your State Senator, I have worked across party lines, built bipartisan coalitions, and partnered with community leaders, nonprofits, small businesses, educators, and first responders. I have always demanded accountability and transparency, and I have delivered real results by listening, engaging, and working side by side with my neighbors.

"As First Selectman, I will bring that same commitment home. I will work to ensure our local government is accessible, responsive, and focused on solutions. I will do everything I can to unite our community, strengthen our connections, and make certain every resident feels heard, valued, and respected."

Steven Sheinberg, chair of the Fairfield Democratic Town Committee, said in a statement to Patch that while Republicans have the legal right to mount a special election petition drive, the Fairfield Town Charter "already provides a clear and democratic process for filling the First Selectman vacancy in this situation."

"That process ensures stability and transparency for our town, and it is the very system Republicans themselves—including Selectman Brenda Kupchick—previously pointed to as the right way forward," Sheinberg said.

"This is not an ‘open seat.’ Fairfield voters made their choice in 2023 when they elected Democrats to lead—and Christine Vitale received the most votes of any candidate. She is already serving as Acting First Selectman with professionalism and compassion, guiding our community through a tragic and difficult moment. Christine will be appointed as First Selectman on Monday under the procedure outlined in our charter, in an open legally noticed meeting. We know she will provide the experience, stability, and leadership Fairfield needs until the next regular election in 2027.

"If Republicans push for an expensive special election, we are confident that voters will again recognize Christine’s proven leadership and overwhelmingly support her to continue leading Fairfield as First Selectman."

Hwang is undeterred by the challenge.

"This is our moment to come together, heal divisions, and move forward with integrity, efficiency, and compassion," Hwang said. "I am ready to lead Fairfield into its next chapter, with energy, experience, and an unwavering belief in service above self.

"I ask for your support in this special election and your partnership in building a better, stronger Fairfield for all."