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Southampton Town Republican Committee Chairman William Wright stepped down from his position last week, and committee member Damon Hagan took on the mantle as the party’s leader.
At its meeting Wednesday night, March 9, the committee voted unanimously to elect Mr. Hagan, who has been involved with the party for a little more than four years. Over the last few months, he ran on the Republican ticket for a spot on the Southampton Town Board, managed Richard Yastrzemski’s campaign in the recent Town Board special election, and had applied for the Southampton Town attorney position that was filled this week by James Burke.
“I’m very excited for the opportunity to lead this party in the future … and bring us success this November, and every November thereafter,” Mr. Hagan said last week.
Additionally, Edward Burke Sr. was elected vice chairman of the committee, Diana Carpenter was elected secretary, and Jim Sanford was elected treasurer.
Mr. Wright, who served a little more than two terms as chairman over the last five-plus years, said last week that he chose to step down because he “never wanted to stay on for more than two terms.” He stayed on for the special election, he said, but added, “It’s time for me to give [over] the reins.”
Mr. Wright explained that he will continue to remain active within the committee, and will continue to help the organization when needed.
As chairman, Mr. Hagan said he will work to support the Republicans who currently are in office, and he will also work to “increase the team.” He said he is looking forward to helping reelect U.S. Representative Lee Zeldin in the congressional race later this year, as well as supporting the Republican nominee in the presidential election.
“He’s been playing an active role. He’s been organizing ground efforts during campaigns,” Mr. Wright said of Mr. Hagan. “I think he’s going to be a great asset.”
Alyssa Melillo on Mar 10, 2016