Roberts, local leaders endorse Young for Norwalk mayor

NORWALK, Conn. — State Rep. Kadeem Roberts has endorsed Darlene Young in her campaign for mayor, joining a growing list of elected officials and community leaders backing the longtime public servant.

Roberts, who grew up in Norwalk, cited his personal connection with Young and their shared work in the city.

“As a child, she gave me my first job. I’ve known her since I was 13 or 14,” Roberts said in a statement. “I am grateful to stand beside her, and I am also grateful to do work in the community with her. We started on the council together … We talk all the time about what we need in Norwalk and in our community. She is always on the forefront and fights and pushes hard for our community and Norwalk.”

Roberts announced his endorsement on Wednesday on Instagram.

Council Members Add Support

Two sitting Common Council members have also stepped forward for Young: At-Large Council Member Nora Niedzielski-Eichner and District D Council Member Johan Lopez.

Niedzielski-Eichner praised Young’s judgment and approach to problem-solving.

“I know her deep heart and ethics, how she listens to people, engages with problems, and looks for solutions,” Niedzielski-Eichner said. “She doesn’t just take what people say—she thinks for herself and isn’t afraid to ask hard questions or challenge people when it’s needed. I’m proud to volunteer for her.”

Lopez pointed to Young’s decades of service.

“I support Darlene because of her 30+ years of community service, her institutional knowledge, and the way she works with people,” he said. “I’m confident she’ll usher in a new era for Norwalk.”

Residents, Leaders Weigh In

Young has also picked up endorsements from community leaders.

Diane Keefe, who has long been active on sustainability issues, described Young as an “independent thinker” with experience working under four different mayors.

“She’s used to building consensus, and I genuinely think she’d make a great mayor,” Keefe said. “I focus on individual candidates, and Darlene is the best choice.”

Lunise Constant, a member of the city’s Fair Rent Commission and the French-speaking Baptist Church of Norwalk, also voiced support.

“I know Darlene through the Mayor’s Youth Employment Program, which has supported hundreds of youth over the last 20+ years,” Constant said. “Her dedication has shaped who I am today, and I’m certain countless other youth would say the same.”