Hampton Considering a Run for 16th District Seat

A Simsbury town offical could step in and seek the Democratic party endorsement for the 16th Assembly District seat being vacated by Representative Linda Schofield.

Deputy First Selectman John K. Hampton said he is considering a run for the seat against Republican candidate Charity Folk.

"I was certainly honored to be approached by party officials," Hampton said. "I love serving Simsbury and the thought of serving at the capital is a thrilling prospect."

Hampton has not made a final decision but expects to make an announcement in the near future.

The 45-year-old Tariffville native has served as a town selectman since 2003 and Deputy First Selectman since 2007. Hampton is currently the owner of Hampton Strategies, a public relations, communications, and fundraising consulting firm.

Hampton also worked as the manager of marketing and outreach for the UConn Alumni Association and served as a legislative aid for the Joint Committee on Executive and Legislative Nominations in the Connecticut General Assembly.

Hampton was first approached by Schofield after she announced that she would not seek another term. Hampton also received encouragement from Simsbury Democratic Town Committee Chair Jeff Tindall and First Selectwoman Mary Glassman.

"I would have big shoes to fill," Hampton said. "Linda is a voice of fiscal conservatism and I would want to continue to build on that."

Simsbury Democratic Town Committee Chair Jeff Tindall said Hampton would be a strong candidate to represent the interests of Simsbury at the state level.

"We're excited, John is a strong candidate," Tindall said. "He has served the residents of Simsbury well during his time on the board. He would bring the same commitment and energy to Hartford."

Tindall said he hopes to know for sure in the next 8-10 days. The Simsbury Democratic Town Committee will endorse a candidate on May 23 during a committee meeting at Eno Memorial Hall at 7:30 p.m.