Patch Candidate Profile: Andrea DiStephan, Brookfield Town Clerk

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

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

Democrat Andrea DiStephan, 49, is running for re-election as Brookfield town clerk. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Queens College. She and her husband Ray have two children: Cawley, a sophomore at UConn Storrs and Jack, a Brookfield High School senior.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

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

Yes. Currently serving 2nd term as Town Clerk. First elected as Town Clerk in 2017 to fill a vacancy. Elected for a second term in 2019.

Why are you seeking this office?

During the past 6 years, it has been an honor to serve Brookfield. I love my job and getting to know and serve so many of my neighbors. The past several years have offered challenges due to the pandemic, including, but not limited to changing election laws. I've enjoyed the challenges that have been brought to Town Clerks, learned from them, and grown because of them. I hope to take my growing professional experiences and apply them to the future success of the Brookfield Town Clerk's office.

Please complete this statement: 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 changing election laws, from the expansion of absentee balloting to the future of early voting. I intend to proceed with my education so I can continue to be prepared to serve residents with the most up-to-date facts as we evolve into new voting methods.

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

In addition to my years of experience, I've obtained the designation of a Certified Connecticut Town Clerk in 2021.

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

Changing election laws remain a top priority for voters and ensuring electors I am a firm believer in the integrity of the democratic process.

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

During my service as Town Clerk, many advances have been made including, but not limited to, the proper preservation of decades of historical documents, back indexing of land records and vital statistics, and merging of indexes. These advances increase vault storage space, ensure safety of documents in the event of a disaster and provide increased accessibility to information.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Platinum Rule - Treat people the way they want to be treated.

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

The Town Clerk's position is not a political position. I love my job and hope to have the honor to continue serving for another term.