On June 16, 2021 an announcement was made by an individual running for the Board of Selectmen in Southbury, CT. Normally a story like this might not garner a ton of national attention, however this situation is different. Meet Holly Sullivan. Sullivan, a transplant from New York now calling Connecticut home, is not only highly involved with local GOP politics, but she is also the President of the Connecticut Citizens Defense League (CCDL).

Sullivan being a 2nd Amendment advocate is an understatement. Besides her position at the CCDL, she is also the Legislative Advisor for the DC Project. Take a look at Sullivan’s extensive Bio on the DC Project page:

Holly is a working professional raising a six-year-old daughter. She holds a Masters degree and has been working in the Human Resources field for 10 years. Holly is also an NRA Instructor and focuses on pro bono training for women. She organizes a group of 50 Connecticut area mothers who focus on responsible carry.

Holly currently serves as the President of the Connecticut Citizens Defense League, a 40,000+ member non-partisan grassroots organization devoted to advocating rights affirmed by the Constitution of the United States and the State of Connecticut. She has also competed in IDPA, the International Defensive Pistol Association.

She has also donated her time and energy to be the CT delegate for The DC Project: Women for Gun Rights, an educational, nonpartisan group of women from all 50 states who advocate for Second Amendment education over legislation. Gun rights are women’s rights and every woman must be prepared to be their own first responder. Women gun owners make firearms safety and education a top priority.

Sullivan is a shining light when it comes to doing what needs to be done. Strong advocates like Sullivan that have a track record of experience is exactly what local governments need. Being the president of a non-partisan volunteer organization such as the CCDL brings important qualities to the table such as being able to listen to the needs of the people while working with those that have opposing opinions. Paired with her work with a multitude of political players through the DC Project, she’s no stranger to working with people using fact-based solutions while remaining sentient to their emotions. Sullivan’s curriculum vitae outlines her multi-faceted and versatile skill base. Her ten plus years experience in the Human Resources filed had conditioned her to listen before she acts.

From a press release we have the following about the announcement:

Southbury First Selectman Jeffrey Manville announced this week that he will seek a fourth term as First Selectman. He also announced that he is running for re-election with a strong team of candidates who will work collaboratively together with him and other members of the Board of Selectmen to continue to move Southbury forward. The slate includes incumbent Selectman Jason Buchsbaum as well as Holly Sullivan, and Gregory Kuehn. They will all seek the endorsement of the Republican Caucus that will take place in July. All Southbury Republicans are encouraged to attend the Caucus and support this team of candidates.

In the release, much of Sullivan’s biographical information mentioned above was included. It was also stated that she looks forward to serving the people of Southbury and included the following statement:

I understand the importance of solid schools, responsible spending and a vibrant community. As a single working mother, I also realize and share in the challenges Southbury families face and am committed to ensuring that our town is an affordable, welcoming place to call home.

I reached out to Sullivan to talk to her about the big announcement. She was excited to discuss this step in her life and in moving to serve her locality. This is what she had to say:

The importance of serving in public office cannot be overstated enough. Every level of government from local to federal should be comprised of the people who truly represent their neighbors and are willing to work to ensure their voices are heard. Whether it be budgets or ordinances, there is always opportunity for elected representatives to work towards a more vibrant, responsible and welcoming community. I honored to be running with a unified team determined to do what is best for the people of this town.

I’d like to take this chance to congratulate Sullivan on the announcement and wish her all the best in her endeavors. Sullivan’s campaign can be followed at the Manville for Southbury page HERE.