Name: Adam J.Hansen
Age: 29
Years of residence in Branford: 29
Party affiliation: Democrat
Position running for: RTM 4th District
Branford Patch: When you’re not sitting in committee and full meetings, what are you doing? i.e. work and fun?
Adam J.Hansen: I have been a professional firefighter and paramedic for the past five years. Physical fitness and outdoor activities have always been very important in my life. When I have free time, I love utilizing our beautiful beaches in Branford with my wife Laurie. Spending time with my family is of great importance to me.
Branford Patch: How many years have you been a sitting member of Branford politics?
Adam J.Hansen: I am enthusiastically seeking my first term on the RTM.
Branford Patch: How long have you been actively engaged in politics in general?
Adam J.Hansen: I have always been a firm believer in democracy. As soon as I turned 18 I became a registered voter. I am an active member of the Democratic Town Committee.
Branford Patch: What and when was your first foray into politics?
Adam J.Hansen: Before my first DTC meeting I was extremely nervous. Upon entering the room, I was amazed at how accepting and nice everyone was being to my wife and I. From that day forward, I quickly realized that this was a place for me.
Branford Patch: What’s your 10-second elevator pitch for getting elected? Adam J.Hansen: Having the opportunity of being a fireman, I have developed a tangible appreciation of what public service really means. To me, there is no greater reward in life than helping others. I would like to continue my service towards the community by being able to represent my friends and neighbors and having their voices be heard.
Branford Patch: What’s one thing right about Branford politics?
Adam J.Hansen: The quality of citizens that reside in Branford are exceptional. Their strength, determination, and perseverance is amazing. The caliber of people is also reflected in our government. The many volunteers that serve on our boards and commissions, selflessly donate their time and energy to make sure that the best decisions possible are made.
Branford Patch: What’s one thing you’d like to see changed?
Adam J.Hansen: I feel that Branford has recently done an outstanding job in taking the right steps in becoming a “green” community. I look forward to seeing the town continue in this direction. I am a firm believer in leading by example. When municipal vehicles begin to reach the end of their shelf life, I would like to see more eco-friendly vehicles replace the existing fleet. Replacing older vehicles with newer fuel efficient vehicles, ie: hybrid, bio-diesel, and flex fuels, the town will be saving money as well as helping to save the environment.
Branford Patch: Regardless of your party affiliation, can you name one good thing about the current First Selectman Anthony “Unk” DaRos and one good thing about his challenger, Joy McConnell?
Adam J.Hansen: Through these tumultuous and uncertain economic times, Unk has been able to maintain Branford’s S&P AAA bond rating and has found a way not to jeopardize our public safety and living conditions by preventing layoffs unlike many other towns and cities have been forced to do. From a first responders perspective, I feel that the manner in which he dealt with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Irene was exceptional. From reading articles, Joy seems to be very family orientated and as I stated before, family values are a very important virtue.
Branford Patch: What has been the most exciting national election you have every voted in? Local?
Adam J.Hansen: The most exciting national election I have voted in was the 2000 presidential race between Al Gore/George W. Bush due to the “dimpled chads,” and how the entire election came down to one state, and the difference of 5 electoral votes. The most exciting statewide election was in 2006 when three -term Sen. Joe Lieberman fell to challenger Ned Lamont in Connecticut's Democratic primary, only to come back three months later winning the election as an Independent.
Branford Patch: What’s one piece of advice you would give apathetic voters about the importance of casting his or her ballot?
Adam J.Hansen: Turn your apathy into enthusiasm. Your ability to voice your beliefs is one of if not the most important right you have. You must harness your voice. Get out and vote!
Branford Patch: What’s the one thing that you like best about Branford?
Adam J.Hansen: Branford is one of the few places that still exist where you can walk down the street, say hello to someone and get a friendly smile in return. We are a town of family, friends, and neighbors who all have a sense of respect and happiness for each other. You just don't see that in most places any more.
Meet Fourth District candidates Maryann P. Amore-D and Michael A. Leone-D tomorrow. You can meet RTM Fourth District candidate who was already interviewed last week as she is running for Town Clerk in addition to Fourth District RTM. Fourth District candidates Robert M. Imperato-R, James A. Amarante-R did not fill out Q&A surveys.
Did you miss the stories on the candidates for selectman’s office? Check out the profiles below:
Candidacy Republican Democrat First Selectman (challenger) Selectman