Westport witnessed a handover Monday Nov. 17 when Democratic candidate Kevin Christie was sworn in as the town’s new first selectman following the town’s largest voter turnout since 2001. The handover was held in a crowded Town Hall auditorium, and drew in many residents, town officials and state leaders after Christie claimed 52.8% of the vote in the Nov. 4 election.
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal gave the oath of office to Christie. Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas, as well as Selectman Don O’Day, swore in Second Selectwoman Amy Wistreich, who was also Christie’s running mate. Town Clerk Jeffery Dunkerton gave the oath of office to the remaining elected officials.
For some students, simply seeing how many community members showed up for a local event was surprising.
“It’s interesting seeing our local government get so much attention,” Jacob Marcucio ’26 said. “Most of us don’t usually think about the politics in our town, but this felt like a big moment for Westport.”
In his remarks, Christie thanked citizens for their help.
“I am filled with gratitude for the honor of serving you,” Christie said.
He identified several priorities for his administration, among them increasing housing for young residents and town employees, maintaining “an attractive mill rate” and developing a process that allows the Planning and Zoning Commission more latitude over final project plans. Christie also emphasized how strong community engagement would continue to be at the core of his leadership.
Christie defeated his opponents, Don O’Day, a Republican, and David Rosenwaks, an Independent, successfully flipping a seat that had been held by Republicans since 2013. His victory included months of work in community outreach and discussions with residents about downtown parking, flooding and long-term planning.
State officials, including Thomas, praised Westport for its civic engagement. Thomas commended Christie and Wistreich for reaching many voters with their campaign. The town achieved 50% voter turnout in this Nov. 4 election, which is 20% greater than the statewide turnout. The rise in participation stood out to several Staples students who follow politics through their AP U.S. Government and Politics classes.
“The turnout shows people actually cared this year,” Owen Goldfarb ’26 said. “When students like me see adults showing up, it makes voting feel more important for when we become old enough to do it, too.”
Residents showed what can happen when a community feels energized and informed.
“You cannot force anyone to vote. You have to inspire them,” Thomas said.
Blumenthal was also very clear on the necessity of local participation.
“It has never been more important for people to step up … Democracy is under threat,” Blumenthal said.
Christie is entering office with experience in both public service and the private sector. He was on the Coleytown Elementary PTA Board and the chair of the Board of Education policy committee. Prior to working in local government, Christie spent over 15 years at International Business Machines (IBM), Merrill Lynch and the Madison Square Garden Company in finance, doing investment banking and corporate strategy.
As Christie gears up to start his term, town officials say the campaign will continue as it enters debates about planning, housing and town operations. Christie intends to begin quickly and collaboratively with his goals for Westport.
“I look forward to getting started … Let’s get to it,” Christie said.
