Patch Candidate Profile: Nathan Tinker For Trumbull Board Of Finance

TRUMBULL, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.

Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.

Candidate's Name:

Nathan Tinker

What office are you seeking?

Board of Finance

What town do you live in?

Trumbull

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation:

Democrat

Occupation:

I am currently the CEO of the Connecticut Pharmacists Association, and have been in that role for 8 years. Previously, I was CEO of the New York Biotechnology Association for a decade.

Family:

My wife Mary is librarian at the University of New Haven and we have 3 children, all of whom are products of Trumbull's incredible school system: Jonathan, 27, is in graduate school studying linguistics; Alexander, 22, just graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a degree in Finance; and Elizabeth, 20, is a Sophomore at Fordham University studying Film and Television. We also have two tuxedo cats, Spencer and Mallory, and a dog, Barney.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

No.

Why are you seeking this office?

Trumbull’s schools, public safety, and quality of life depend on sound financial planning. I want to help strike that balance between keeping taxes manageable and maintaining the high standards that make Trumbull a great place to live. I also believe that good local government requires direct, active participation from citizens. Running for the Board of Finance is an opportunity to give back to the community that has been so vital to me and my family.

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

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is the cost of living. Trumbull residents are proud of our strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and vibrant community services. As a member of the Board of Finance, my focus would be on smart, transparent budgeting that ensures every dollar is spent wisely; on long-term financial planning that reduces volatility; and on maintaining affordability without compromising the quality of life and educational excellence our residents expect.

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

I bring over two decades of executive leadership and fiscal management experience to the Board of Finance. As CEO of statewide and national organizations, I’ve overseen complex budgets, driven innovative operational efficiency, and strengthened transparency and accountability — all while ensuring that strategic decisions reflect the needs of members and stakeholders. My background in policy, advocacy, and education has taught me how to balance fiscal responsibility with community priorities, and, importantly, how to communicate those choices clearly to the public.

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

Across the country — and here in Trumbull — people are losing trust in institutions. Residents often feel left out of the conversation, uncertain about how decisions are made, or frustrated by conflicting or biased information about taxes, projects, or town spending. Misinformation on social media can spread quickly, eroding confidence even when the facts are sound. When trust falters, civic engagement declines — and everyone loses.

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

As the senior executive of several trade associations, I’ve spent my career advocating for sound policy, fiscal responsibility, and public accountability. As CEO of the Connecticut Pharmacists Association, I lead statewide advocacy efforts that have shaped healthcare legislation and funding priorities, while managing budgets and programs that serve tens of thousands of professionals. My experience has taught me how to balance competing needs, communicate complex issues clearly, and make data-driven decisions. As an educator at the University of New Haven and UConn, I also bring a commitment to transparency, evidence-based thinking, and community engagement.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

The best advice I ever received came from a mentor when I was writing my dissertation, “You don’t have to publish everything you know.” It taught me that leadership isn’t about showing how much you know — it’s about using knowledge wisely. In public service, that means listening carefully, communicating clearly, and focusing on what helps people, not just what proves a point.

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

I care deeply about Trumbull and the people who call it home. My family and I chose this town because it values education, integrity, and community — the same principles that guide my work and my life. I believe public service is about stewardship, not partisanship: listening carefully, spending wisely, and keeping our town strong, affordable, and forward-looking. I want to ensure Trumbull’s long-term financial health and to help protect the quality of life that makes it such a great place to live.