Jennifer Budai

Jennifer Budai has called Stratford home for more than 25 years, building a life with her husband while continuing the family ties that have connected her to the community for generations. A tireless advocate for Stratford’s shoreline and natural resources, Jen was honored with the 2023 Terry Backer Environmental Champion Award by the Democratic Town Committee for her consistent activism, including her work with Sacred Heart University on the Horseshoe Crab Tagging Program and leading community beach clean-ups.

 

Her advocacy extends beyond the shoreline. Jen has been a visible and effective voice for policies that strengthen families and communities – championing Paid Family Medical Leave, supporting domestic violence survivors, fighting for family justice and women’s rights, and ensuring access to quality health care. She has also been instrumental in local organizing efforts to ban fracking waste and prevent the sale of Stratford’s water treatment plant, protecting both residents and the environment.

 

A co-founder of FightBackCT Stratford, Jen connects citizen activists with opportunities to take action in support of progressive values. She is also a leader within the Stratford Democratic Party, where she has played a central role in volunteer recruitment and training, building grassroots strength for campaigns across the community.

 

Jen’s professional background in financial risk management brings another important dimension to her candidacy. With extensive expertise in regulatory compliance at both the federal and state level, she understands accountability, and how to ensure resources are used wisely. Her experience challenging budget decisions and demanding transparency has prepared her to apply the same rigor and fairness to Stratford’s planning decisions.

 

A member of the Long Island Sound Regional Priority Council, Jen has seen first-hand how sustained effort and collaboration can restore and protect our environment. She brings that same commitment and energy to ensuring Stratford grows responsibly, equitably, and with an eye to the future.

 

“In a nutshell, I care about our town, about my fellow citizens, and about you,” Jen says.