Greenwich Republican Announces Candidacy For First Selectman

GREENWICH, CT — Before an overflow crowd Tuesday night at Greenwich's Arch Street Teen Center, state Rep. Fred Camillo (R-151st) announced his candidacy for First Selectman to replace current First Selectman Peter Tesei who is not seeking re-election.

Camillo, who has served four terms in the state General Assembly in Hartford, told the crowd that the chance to serve his constituents at home is a major reason he is seeking the First Selectman post.

"I love my job right now at the state Capitol," he said. "But I love my town more."

Camillo is the second Republican who wants to be the town's top elected official. Board of Estimate and Taxation member Michael Mason also recently announced his candidacy for the position.

No Democrat has formally announced a bid for First Selectman, but Selectman Sandy Litvack ran a strong campaign two years ago.

During his brief speech Tuesday, Camillo didn't lay out specific policy initiatives, but said that he's learned a lot about governing from his years in Hartford that he believes will help him if elected back home.

He also thanked Tesei, and the town's previous First Selectmen for succeeding in leaving Greenwich in a better place when they left office.

The Republican Town Committee will decide on a candidate in late July between Camillo and Mason, provided another Republican does not enter the race.

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