Mike Demicco to Face Wadsworth in House Race

In six years on the Town Council, Mike Demicco has followed his principles, even if he has done it alone and ended up on the losing end of many 6-1 votes.

But Thursday night, in accepting the Democratic nomination to run against in the 21st District, Demicco was surrounded by supporters — from House Speaker Chris Donovan to a crowd of enthusiastic Farmington Democrats. And after losing to Wadsworth in 2010 by just 41 votes, he’s hopeful this time will be different.

Giannaros, who held the 21st District seat for nine terms, nominated Demicco Thursday night at the Farmington Democratic caucus. Demicco accepted to a standing ovation and cheers of “We love Mike.”

“What makes Mike the right choice for state rep is Mike listens and he is committed to making this community a healthier, wealthier and stronger environment,” said Town Committee Chairman Rob Huelin.

Giannaros joked about Demicco’s attentive listening, noting that he sometimes even takes notes so as not to forget what he’s promised to do.

Other speakers also underscored Demicco's character.

"Three things come to mind with Mike: hardwork, passion and humility," said Michael Daly.

In seconding the nomination, Ned Statchen described how Demicco had welcomed him to town, demonstrating his care for all people.

"He listens to people and works for people in Farmington," Statchen said.

“My focus is simple: private sector job creation, efficient delivery of government services – particularly for those most in need – and lowering the tax burden,” Demicco said.

He touted his role in creating and expanding Farmington’s Elderly Tax Relief program and his support for town services and education.

“In the town budgets that I have helped craft in the last six years, I have consistently advocated not for the lowest possible property tax rate, but for a reasonable tax rate that would provide services our residents expect and deserve and can afford,” Demicco said. “Obviously our state government is much larger than our town government but the principle is the same – a balance between taxes and services.”

Demicco and his wife Brenda have lived in Farmington since 1991 and have two daughters, Emily and Katie. He is a former high school and middle school teacher, was a stay-at-home father when his children were young, volunteering on the East Farms PTO Executive Board, in the library and as a tutor in the Kindergarten Acceleration Program.

Demicco now works in the Connecticut State Legislature as an assistant clerk for the Joint Committee on Commerce and the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Security. He has also worked for the Speaker’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Municipal Opportunities and Regional Efficiencies and the Task Force on Law Enforcement’s Response to Family Violence.