Updates from State Rep. Farley Santos for Jan. 16, 2026

January 16, 2026



 

I released the following statement last week, but the sentiment remains, particularly in light of what has transpired since.

"My heart goes out to the family of the woman killed in Minnesota. While we may not yet have all the facts, what is certain is this: a life was lost. And I am outraged by that.

"I’m outraged that heavy-handed tactics have once again led to fear, trauma, and now death. People should never be afraid of their government, yet too many families are living with that fear right now.

"While I grew up undocumented, I never experienced the level of fear that so many community members and neighbors are feeling right now. I know what it means to grow up in a family shaped by uncertainty, and I know how deeply those moments stay with you.

"When the line is crossed from duty to cruelty, a life is lost, and families are forever changed. It should be treated as the outrage it is.

"Our country needs to rebalance itself. We can do better. We should expect better. And we must keep fighting for a system that protects human life and doesn’t lose sight of the families caught in the middle."
 

Pre-Session Town Hall

📣

 Danbury, we want to hear from you!

The 2026 legislative session is almost here, and before it begins, the Danbury Delegation is hosting a Pre-Session Town Hall to listen directly to residents about the issues that matter most to our community.

Join us:
🗓 Wednesday, Jan. 21
⏰ 6:30–8:30 p.m.
📍 WCSU Midtown Student Center, Room 202, 181 White St., Danbury

This is your chance to:
• Share your priorities for the upcoming session
• Raise concerns or ideas
• Ask questions about local and state issues
• Learn how the legislative process impacts Danbury
All Danbury residents are encouraged to attend.
Register here

Your voice matters. Hope to see you there!

 

Free Little Card Barn Opens

The Free Little Card Barn is officially open in front of CIFC Health on Main Street!

A big thank you to Jackie Reizes for her creativity and dedication in expanding thoughtful, accessible opportunities for Danbury residents.

Need a card? Take one for free. Have extra cards at home? Drop them off and help spread kindness.
 

Capstone Exhibition

Happy to be invited to participate in the DHS West Capstone Project Exhibition on Wednesday. These students were outstanding. From mental health to housing, immigration, and open space & wildlife preservation, their presentations were thoughtful, informed, and inspiring.

Honestly, it was hard to judge because every project was that good. Even was convinced to buy a shirt to support preservation. Huge thanks to the dedicated teachers who help make this level of work possible.

Our future is in great hands.
 

These Wings Fly (And Are Bussin')

We stopped by T.K.'s American Cafe to get some of those Connecticut Magazine’s Top Wings. Gold Rush for me and Peanut Butter and Jelly for Khloë! (she says they were “bussin'” — whatever that means [ed note: it means they were delicious].)
 

Danbury's Newest Eagle

I was proud to recognize Danbury’s own JD Andrews with a Mayor’s Proclamation for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout with NF Troop 137, a milestone that speaks volumes about his character, leadership, and dedication.

JD’s Eagle project with Jericho Partnership, Inc. created 180 meal kits with recipe guides for families in need, making a real impact in our community. He’s also an honors student at Henry Abbott Technical High School and a tri-sport athlete in Football, Indoor Track, and Tennis.

It was an honor to celebrate this achievement and to see JD receive a well deserved proclamation. Danbury’s future is in good hands.
 

Congratulations, Mini Santosh!

Please join me in congratulating Mini Santosh who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Danbury Board of Education. That’s exactly how I began my public service to the city we love. I know she will be a fantastic advocate for our children!
 

Honoring Coach Ratchford

Congratulations to Coach Shaun Ratchford on an extraordinary career and on his retirement as Head Coach of Danbury High School Baseball after 43 incredible years. A retired teacher, former Councilman, current Board of Education member, and Recreation Director, but to generations of students, he’s simply Coach Ratch. A mentor, a role model, and someone who helped countless young people become their best selves through athletics and in the classroom.

The outpouring of love at DHS tonight said it all. Ratch’s impact runs deep across our community, and he continues to serve Danbury with the same heart and dedication in his leadership roles today.

Thank you, Coach Ratchford, for a lifetime of commitment to our kids and our city. Ratch is Danbury through and through!
 

Supporting Our Teachers

Supporting teachers means supporting students, and strengthening our city’s future. I spent time with NEA-Danbury educators listening, learning, and talking through the real needs in our schools and the solutions that can make a meaningful difference. I’m proud to advocate for our educators, because the best investment we can make in our city’s economic future is investing in our students and the teachers who support them every day. Thank you to every educator who works so hard for our children.
 

Honoring MLK

On Monday, New Hope Baptist Church in Danbury will hold a celebration in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. There will be a free continental breakfast at 9 a.m., and the program will begin at 10 a.m. For more information, please send an email to info@newhopedanbury.org
 

Sincerely,

Farley Santos

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