Patch Candidate Profile: Nancy McCormack, Branford RTM, District 6

BRANFORD, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Branford and there are plenty of local races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Branford Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Democrat Nancy McCormack, 68, of Branford, is running for RTM, District 6.

Education.

M.S. Criminal Justice Mgmt

What is your occupation?

Retired - former Chief Probation Officer

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

I currently have a 23yo daughter who went through the Branford public school system. My grandmother lived in Branford with her parents and sisters and married my grandfather in St. Mary's Church in 1916.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

None of my family members work in politics or government.

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

I was a representative to the RTM from the 7th District 25 years ago and the first female Democratic moderator of the RTM.

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I have been civil-minded and politically active all my life. Now that I'm retired, I have more time to dedicate to issues that are important to me, to those who live in my district specifically, and to all Branford residents.

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

Public safety is always an important issue facing every resident in every town. Keeping our taxes low and having receptive and accessible town officials is essential. People want to be heard and have their concerns addressed. I intend to advocate for them.

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

Many folks are content with the status quo or, worse, hesitate to ask the tough questions about issues that face all of us as residents of Branford. There are legitimate concerns and conversations to be had about how our town is run and how positions are filled. That's not being negative, that's being informed.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

I've lived in Branford since 1978 and in District 6 for the past 12 years. I can't remember any current member of the RTM reaching out or asking my opinion about town business or issues that may present in District 6. I promise to be accessible and proactive as a member of the RTM.

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

I think part of the charm of Branford is that small New England town vibe. I'd like to see that economic development adds to our worth, but maintains the shoreline feel we've all come to love about our town.

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

I have a master's degree in Criminal Justice and had a 31-year career with the State of CT Judicial Branch. As such, I was an Affirmative Action Division Coordinator and Chief Probation Officer for many years. My prior experience on the RTM and my current position as Co Vice-Chair of the Democratic Party speak to my commitment to local government. Lastly and most importantly, as a single mom, I have proven to myself that I can do anything.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Treat others the way you would like to be treated. Be forgiving.

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

I would welcome it if the residents in my district felt comfortable reaching out to me to discuss any concerns they might have. We are better together.