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“I have the courage to do what’s best for our next generation, not my next election,” Fedele (R), who first announced his intentions to run in February after filing the necessary paperwork, said during the event at UConn-Stamford.
The Italian immigrant who grew up on the city’s west side, expressed how grateful he was for all of the opportunities the city and America afforded him, and how he wants to make sure others in the city have the same chances going forward. He added that to his parents opportunity was education, and he wants kids to have the talents and abilities to adjust to a changing society.
“We have to see beyond where we are today,” Fedele said adding that it would be a big challenge, but also a great opportunity for him to do.
Current Mayor Michael Pavia gave his endorsement of Fedele saying that Stamford is on the verge of becoming one of the greatest cities in the country and needs a leader who “gets it.” “There is one person and only one person who can continue the legacy of this great city of Stamford and that is Michael Fedele,” he said.
In addition to serving as Lt. Governor from 2007 to 2011, Fedele served on Stamford’s Board of Representatives from 1987 to 1991 and as a State Representative for the 147th district from 1992 to 2002. He also works as the founder and chief executive officer for Pinnacle Group, a nationwide IT company based in Stamford. He and his wife Carol have three kids and three grandchildren.
The election is wide open after Pavia decided not to run for re-election in January. He was elected in 2009, taking the position left vacant by Dannel Malloy who stepped down to pursue and ultimately become Governor.
Fedele is currently vying for the Republican nomination against Board of Education member Jerry Pia. Seeking the Democratic nomination are State Rep. William Tong, Board of Finance member David Martin, City Rep. Eileen Heaphy, and ex-Director of Public Safety, Health, and Wellness William Callion.
Party endorsements will be made during the week of July 16 through 23 and, if necessary, a primary election will be held on Sept. 10, according to the Secretary of the State’s office. Election Day is Nov. 5.
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