We are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Susan Cocco, a dear friend, the current Democratic Registrar of Voters, and a long-time former Chair of the Ridgefield Democratic Town Committee.

Her passion for politics was rooted in her love for her family, her town, and her country. Her passion was matched only by her encyclopedic knowledge not just of the issues, but of the people involved at every level: the politicians, the leaders, the staffers, the organizers and the volunteers. Susan knew all of them.

As the current Chair of the DTC, I think I can speak for my predecessors and all DTC members, past and present when I say that the DTC in its current form would not exist without Susan’s leadership and dedication. And there is no way Ridgefield Democrats would have enjoyed the success we have had over the past decades without her.

Susan was the Chair of the DTC for 16 years, bringing her knowledge and expertise in advertising to her work in politics. During her tenure, Ridgefield went from overwhelmingly Republican to a more balanced town. But even when the Dems were outnumbered, we still enjoyed disproportional success at the ballot box. We learned from her the three secrets to success: excellent candidates, great policies, and a superb ground game.

The real heartbreaker for me, aside from the loss for Francesca, Gianna and her family, is that Susan did not live to see a woman elected President. As Carina Drake, another DTC Chair, pointed out, Susan was a fierce supporter of women’s rights and a tireless advocate for women in leadership roles. She proudly hosted the Alice Paul events, and never lost an opportunity to educate the next generation about the suffragists’ sacrifices in pursuit of the sacred right to vote. She leaves a rich legacy not only of women who have spearheaded successful campaigns, but also those who have run for and won political office.

Susan, I know you are up there, giving God a piece of your mind. And if Heaven is anything like the DTC, it will be all the better for it. Rest assured that we will carry on what you began.

Rest in Peace, my friend. We will miss you.
Arny DiLaura
Chair, Ridgefield Democratic Town Committee