Patch Candidate Profile: Anthony Bruno, Danbury City Council

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

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

Commercial property & casualty insurance broker Anthony Bruno, 35, is running to represent Danbury's 5th Ward on the City Council as a Republican. He holds a B.A. from Fordham University in Science & Philosophy. He lives with his fiancé, Sarah, and has three children in elementary school.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

No

Why are you seeking this office?

To be a voice for my neighbors and the families of Danbury’s 5th Ward, who have told me they want to live in a community with safe streets, strong schools, and low taxes.

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

Unsafe traffic, road and sidewalk conditions in our neighborhoods. I am currently working with a bipartisan group of neighbors and the City to find out-of-the-box solutions to address these issues without having to raise taxes on property owners.

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

I have never been involved in politics before but felt compelled to get involved at this time. I have gained valuable experience working with my business clients over the past decade and a half and believe my ability for problem-solving will lead to new solutions for old problems that have yet to be addressed.

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

I am not running for office to talk about the past, I am here to tackle the issues currently facing the 5th ward. When speaking with neighbors, the top 2 issues have been dangerous speeding and traffic conditions for pedestrians (especially our children and seniors) and the poor conditions of the roads & sidewalks. I plan to address these issues head-on, if elected.

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

The City of Danbury has done a good job of growing our Police Department as well as funding and expanding our education system.

I will continue to advocate for the resources law enforcement and first responders required to keep our city safe. I will also support funding for necessary enhancements needed by the Danbury public schools to ensure our children become successful learners and future leaders of our city.

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

As an Insurance Professional, I have a great track record of delivering successful results to my clients under the pressure of time and budgetary constraints. I have been tasked by my company to lead a large Risk Management services team because of my consistent ability to deliver smart solutions while always putting our clients’ needs first. I intend to work the same way for you and the people of Danbury as your City Councilman.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

My mom always said that “God gave you two ears and one mouth for a reason”. Before making important decisions, I always ask for feedback and consider the thoughtful opinions of all who are willing to provide it.

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

I am looking forward to working with all Danburians to address the unique issues affecting your neighborhood or the community at-large. I will be transparent in my efforts to find solutions and my door will always be open.