By Jude Toohey
Orange Republican Town Committee
Jude Toohey
The Orange Republican Town Committee extends its heartfelt appreciation to every resident who participated in this year’s municipal elections. Your engagement – whether through early voting, showing up on Election Day or volunteering in the weeks leading up to the vote – reflects the strength and character of our community.
This year’s results delivered a clear message. With Jim Zeoli earning 57 percent of the vote for first selectman, and with Republican candidates elected to every board and commission, the people of Orange underscored their trust in steady, experienced, community-first leadership. We are humbled by that confidence and remain fully committed to honoring it in the years ahead.
At the same time, it is important to recognize that our election process only works because people from across the political spectrum step forward to serve. Running for office – regardless of party – is an act of dedication. We thank every candidate, Republican and Democrat alike, who put their name on the ballot, knocked on doors, attended forums and brought their ideas to the voters. Their willingness to participate strengthens our democracy and enriches the civic life of our town.
This November also brought us together for Veterans Day, a moment when Orange paused to honor the men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform. Their service is the foundation upon which our freedoms rest – including the freedom to vote, debate, disagree and choose our local leaders. The connection between these two events is unmistakable: the peaceful transfer of local leadership, the ability to cast a ballot and the right to participate in town government are direct results of the sacrifices made by America’s veterans.
I am proud of my dad, who is no longer here but served in Word War II and was a disabled American veteran. Growing up I was proud of him, proud to be his daughter and grateful for his service to our country and the unwavering love he showed to my mom, to me and to his grandsons.
As we reflect on both Election Day and Veterans Day, we are reminded that our community thrives when people step forward – whether to defend our country, serve in elected office or simply take part in shaping the future of Orange.
Our town’s success has always come from this spirit of involvement. From our top-tier schools to our strong fiscal management, from our thriving small businesses to our safe, welcoming neighborhoods, Orange is a place built on shared pride and shared responsibility. Residents continue to show that they care deeply about preserving what makes our town special, and we are grateful for that commitment.
Looking ahead, our pledge is simple: to uphold common-sense governance, foster transparency, maintain stable finances, support strong education and protect the small-town character that residents cherish. With your support – and with continued cooperation across our community – we will build on the strong foundation that generations before us worked so hard to create.
Thank you again for your trust, your participation and your dedication to our town.
During this season of giving, let us reflect on all we are grateful for.
Jude Toohey is the vice chair of the Orange Republican Town Committee.