Jim Marpe Wins First Selectman Race

Republican Jim Marpe will be the next First Selectman of Westport.  

Marpe, and his running mate Avi Kaner, defeated Democratic challenger Helen Garten and Melissa Kane, winning every district that has been reported as of 10:30 p.m. Tuesday.

After it was clear Marpe would win the First Selectman race, the newly elected leader of Westport took the stage and addressed a crowd of about 150 supporters.

“I started this process one year ago tonight and it has always been about the people of Westport,” said Marpe.

Marpe thanked his family and supporters, including his campaign team, calling them “a model for the future of local campaigning”.

“During this campaign I learned one simple truth, Westport is a special place,” said Marpe. “What really makes it special are the people.”

Marpe’s team took down the RTC sign at the foot of his podium, replacing it with the Town of Westport seal, which led the town’s incoming First Selectman to proclaim it was time to switch from campaigning and political parties to representing all of the residents of Westport.

Marpe said he would begin his duties tomorrow by visiting town buildings and greeting town employees.

“I view the Selectman’s Office as a team,” he said. “Avi Kaner and I have been forming that team over the past year. I can’t wait to begin collaborating with them.”