Happy Holidays from State Rep. Nick Menapace

December 23, 2025

As we gather with loved ones and reflect on the year behind us, I want to thank you — truly — for your trust, your engagement, and your steadfast support.

The past year has not been easy. We’ve faced turbulent times marked by uncertainty, injustice, and challenges that tested our resilience as a community and as a state. Yet, through it all, I have been inspired by the compassion, courage, and determination of the people I am honored to represent.

This season reminds us that progress is possible when we stand together, even in the face of unthinkable cruelty. It renews our responsibility to care for one another and to ensure that opportunity, dignity, and safety are not privileges for a few, but rights for all.

As we look ahead to the new year, please know this: I will continue to fight tirelessly for equity, to stand up to injustice wherever it appears, and to work toward a Connecticut where every family can thrive. I remain committed to listening, learning, and leading with integrity on your behalf.

Wishing you peace, warmth, and hope this holiday season, and strength and solidarity in the year to come.

Press Conference on Aspiring Teachers

Last week, I spoke at a press conference about paying aspiring educators. I remember what it was like to be a student teacher — working full time, paying tuition, and trying to make it all work. If we want great teachers in our classrooms, we have to start by treating them like professionals.

Watch my comments below.

Visit to CT Humane Society

I recently had the chance to stop by the Connecticut Humane Society this week. As a proud member of the Animal Rights Caucus, I’m grateful for the incredible work they do for animals across our state.

I also got to spend some time with two amazing pups, Tinkerbell and Lillith, who stole my heart the second I walked in.

Thank you to the entire CHS team for everything you do to protect, care for, and advocate for animals. I’m a big supporter of your mission, and I’m proud to stand with you.

Letter to The Day

The holiday season is a time for warmth, reflection, and looking out for one another. It’s also a moment to remember our neighbors who are struggling, especially those without stable housing.

Along the lines of my opening, in my letter to The Day, I reflect on why dignity, compassion, and evidence-based solutions must guide how we address homelessness — and why Connecticut has a responsibility to lead.

I hope you’ll take a moment to read and reflect this season.

Letter to The Mirror

I also submitted this letter to the CT Mirror on how to rebuild and buttress democracy by having real, face-to-face conversations with people on issues like affordability, taxes and health care.

Please take a moment to read it here.

Erasing Medical Debt

40,000 Connecticut residents will receive letters in the mail this week informing them that some or all of their medical debt will be erased under an initiative with the national organization Undue Medical Debt to provide relief to those having difficulty paying medical bills.

This is the third round of the initiative, the first two erasing nearly $130 million in debt for 125,000 residents.

Around the 37th

The Niantic Jingle Bell 5K brought out a bipartisan group of East Lyme leaders for some community spirit. We had Rich Gordon (who serves on the Planning Commission with me), Wendi Sims (Registrar of Voters), Candice Carlson (Board of Selectmen), and Jaime Barr Sheldon (Board of Education).

It was also a successful Niantic 5K by Minnie’s standards: plenty of new smells, friendly faces, and no requirement to run.

Happy to stop by the ribbon cutting for Stel’s Beauty’s new location! This local med spa has been part of the Niantic community for a few years and has now moved into a new, more visible space on Pennsylvania Ave. Glad to join First Selectman Dan Cunningham and others in welcoming them to their new home. Wishing them continued success — be sure to stop in and check it out!

Thank you to everyone who came out to my Constituent Corner last week. I’m grateful for the thoughtful conversations — and the falafel and chicken & lamb skewers from Taza Grill were excellent!