Patch Candidate Profile: Vicki Tesoro, Trumbull First Selectman

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

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

Democrat Vicki Tesoro, 68, is a Trumbull resident running for reelection as first selectman.

Education

Master of Science Taxation Pace University, B.A. History, University of Connecticut

What is your occupation?

First Selectman of Trumbull 6 years

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

My husband Tom and I have been married 38 years. He is the Chief Human Resources Officer at a company in NYC. We have two daughters, both graduates of the Trumbull Public Schools System. Both hold Masters degrees and are gainfully employed.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

Other than me, no.

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

Yes, currently First Selectman, also elected member of the Trumbull Town Council for 2 terms and an appointed member of the Trumbull Board of Finance.

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'm the incumbent First Selectman. We've done great things for our community over the last six years but I believe there is more work to do and I'm the best candidate to do it.

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

Keeping taxes stable. I intend to do this by keeping spending in check while making carefully thought out investments and keeping our services comprehensive and strong.

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

I have six years of experience in the office and a track record of success while leading the town through a very difficult time, the pandemic. Positive policies and programs that attract strong support from democrats, republicans and unaffiliated voters. A leadership style that is civil and unites the community.

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

I am the incumbent and I have not failed the community.

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

I am going to continue to invest in education. I am going to continue to fund public safety. I am going to continue to prioritize seniors and I am going to continue to upgrade our infrastructure. I will continue to expand recreational, social, and other opportunities that allow all our citizens to fully participate in the life of our great community.

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

I have six years of experience as First Selectman with positive results. My previous experience in town government and my long time service as a community volunteer make me well qualified to handle any challenges ahead.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Do the right thing the right way!

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

My leadership style is not based on self- aggrandizement or political expediency. My leadership style is one that is thoughtful, careful, and empathetic, always keeping in mind the best interests of my community. My decisions are fact based and made after thorough consideration of the alternatives.