President Obama Endorses Caroline Simmons For Mayor Of Stamford

STAMFORD, CT — Former President Barack Obama formally endorsed Democratic candidate Caroline Simmons for Mayor of Stamford on Thursday, according to an announcement from her campaign.

"Caroline Simmons knows what it takes to create real change, and she’ll help make Stamford an even better place for families and businesses. That’s why I’m endorsing her for mayor," Obama said in a news release.

Simmons served in the Obama Administration for four-and-a half years at the Department of Homeland Security. At DHS, Simmons worked on domestic and international counter terrorism programs and helped coordinate with state and local governments on active shooter, violent extremism and other emergency response trainings.

"I am thrilled to receive President Obama’s support in this race. President Obama inspired a generation of leaders to serve their country and reach for a better America. His call for hope and change inspired me to serve my country, and I am ready to take the next step in that mission by stepping up to lead our great city of Stamford," Simmons said in a news release.

"I will always reach for higher ideals while bringing concrete, measurable improvements to our city; I will always seek to bring people together to find smart, innovative solutions that lift every member of our communities; and I will always strive to be honest, approachable, and transparent with all of my colleagues and constituents — living the values I learned from President Obama."

Earlier this week, Simmons was endorsed by Connecticut Employees Union Independent SEIU Local 511.

According to the Stamford Advocate, Simmons said she has met Obama twice in person. The Advocate noted that Simmons worked on his presidential campaign in 2008. She was also a part of his transition team.

The Advocate reported that Simmons has stayed in contact with some of Obama's team, and her campaign recently reached out to ask for an endorsement.

Simmons is going up against unaffiliated candidate Bobby Valentine in the race for Stamford mayor. The election will be held on Nov. 2.

Valentine, the former Major League Baseball player and manager, has also received support from a former president. Over the summer, the Advocate reported that he received a $500 donation from President George W. Bush.

Earlier this week, Simmons was endorsed by Connecticut Employees Union Independent SEIU Local 511, and Valentine was endorsed by the Stamford Education Association.

Read more from the Stamford Advocate