By Anne White
As the Republican Town Committee (RTC) gears up for a pivotal election cycle, the focus has turned to Michael Hahn, who announced his candidacy for the position of chairman in a letter to RTC members on Jan. 15. Hahn, a seasoned political strategist with nearly two decades of experience in Republican politics, seeks to lead the RTC following current Chair Jerry Cincotta’s decision to step down due to medical reasons. The vote to determine the next chair will take place on Jan. 29.
Hahn, who has been actively involved in Connecticut politics since 2003, brings a wealth of experience to the table. In a call made to Hahn by the Sentinel, Hahn outlined his vision for the RTC, emphasizing collaboration and a grassroots approach. “I’m committed to creating an environment where our party and candidates can thrive,” Hahn stated. “The Republican Party should engage with our constituents to understand their needs and concerns.”
In his Jan. 15 letter to RTC members, Hahn reaffirmed his dedication to transparency and empowering local voices. He highlighted his history of managing successful state campaigns and cofounding the CT Young Republicans as a testament to his leadership capabilities. “Together, we can build a strong platform that not only promotes qualified and passionate candidates but also ensures that our party remains a positive force in Greenwich,” he wrote.
The upcoming vote comes after a tremendously successful term for the RTC under Cincotta’s leadership. While his election as chairman may have been contentious, Cincotta guided the committee to significant electoral victories in Greenwich. Under his leadership, Senator Ryan Fazio won his seat by a commanding 2,000 votes, a remarkable improvement from the narrow 89-vote margin two years prior. Additionally, Cincotta spearheaded efforts to reverse legislative seat losses, regaining the 149th district for Republicans with Tina Courpas’s election. Hahn acknowledged these achievements and expressed optimism about continuing this momentum. “Debate and discussion are essential,” he said. “Purity tests don’t move conversations forward. Healthy debate does.”
Hahn’s strategy for the RTC revolves around maintaining a focus on local issues and building on the successes of candidates like Ryan Fazio and Tina Courpas. “Our voters care about what affects them daily,” he noted. “From zoning to energy policy, local matters resonate more than national debates.” He added, “Greenwich is a community where decisions on local issues, like education and land use, have a direct and immediate impact on families. When we stay focused on these matters, we build trust and achieve results that benefit everyone.”
The committee’s agenda for 2025 includes elections for key positions such as First Selectman, Board of Estimate and Taxation, Board of Education, and the Representative Town Meeting. Hahn emphasized the importance of fielding strong candidates for these roles, stating, “We’re developing good slates of candidates who represent solid, basic principles.”
Reflecting on Cincotta’s tenure, Hahn praised the outgoing chairman’s efforts. “Jerry was elected under extraordinary circumstances and gave everyone a chance to voice their opinions,” he said. “He worked tirelessly to unify the committee, and I plan to continue that effort.”
Hahn also underscored the importance of maintaining civility in political discourse. “This is a committee of high-functioning individuals who should be able to talk to each other like adults,” he said. “Our neighbors, friends, and sometimes family deserve respect, even when we disagree.”
As the January 29 vote approaches, Hahn’s candidacy has garnered significant attention. While he anticipates some dissent within the committee, he remains focused on the broader goal of strengthening the RTC and advancing Republican values in Greenwich. “This is about more than one election cycle,” Hahn concluded. “It’s about building on the foundation for the future.”
