Updates from State Rep. Farley Santos for July 2, 2026

July 2, 2026

As we celebrate Independence Day, I've been reflecting on what America has meant in my life.

We have never been a perfect nation. Throughout our history, we have fallen short of our highest ideals, yet we have also continued striving to become a more just, more equal, and more perfect union. That pursuit has never been easy, and it is certainly not finished. But I believe it is worth every ounce of our effort.

I love this country. I have chosen to devote my life's work to serving this nation, the State of Connecticut, and the City of Danbury because my parents taught me to believe deeply in the promise of America and in the people who make it extraordinary. The pursuit of opportunity, justice, and happiness is never complete, but it is always worth fighting for. My gratitude for all that this great nation has given me is endless.

I won't ever tire of telling my story. When I was seven years old, my parents immigrated to the United States from Brazil. We settled in Danbury, where I grew up as an undocumented child learning to speak English.

My family did not come here to take opportunities away from anyone. We came seeking the opportunity to build a better life while contributing to the country that welcomed us. My parents taught me to work hard, stay humble, give back whenever possible, and to revere the promise of America. They believed this was a nation where, through hard work, faith, and perseverance, anything was possible. Those lessons shaped my life.

I worked hard in school, married the love of my life, became a U.S. citizen, built a career in the private sector, and today have the privilege of serving the community and state that have given so much to me. Public service is more than my profession, it is my way of repaying a debt of gratitude to the country that gave a young immigrant child opportunities beyond anything he could have imagined.

Like so many immigrants, I still embrace where I came from. That doesn't make me any less American or any less grateful. If you follow my Facebook page, you'll probably have a hard time figuring out whether I'm cheering harder for the United States, Brazil, or Portugal during the World Cup. The answer is - all of them.

I am proud of my Brazilian heritage and proud of my Portuguese roots. But I am even prouder, and fiercely committed to, the city that raised me and the nation that made my story possible. Danbury isn't just where I live. It is home. America isn't just the country where I became a citizen. It is the country I love and have dedicated my life to serving.

As America marks its 250th year, I know there are countless people like my family who simply want the opportunity to work hard, raise a family, contribute to their community, and pursue their own version of the American Dream.

Despite the challenges we face and the divisions that often dominate the headlines, my faith in this community and in our country has never wavered. I believe America's best days are still ahead of us, not because we are perfect, but because generation after generation, Americans have been willing to work, sacrifice, and serve to leave this country better than they found it.

I hope you and your family have a safe, peaceful, and blessed Fourth of July.
Happy Independence Day.

Severe Hot Weather Protocol Activated

With the Governor activating the Hot Weather Protocol, please take the heat seriously over the next several days.

If you need a place to cool off, Danbury's cooling centers, spray parks, and Candlewood Lake Town Park are available to help you stay safe and comfortable. Please take a moment to check on neighbors, family members, and anyone who may be especially vulnerable to the extreme heat.

Drink plenty of water, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, and never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle, even if its for a few minutes.

Let's look out for one another and stay safe, Danbury.

Five Decades of Excellence in Danbury

50 years in business doesn't happen by accident. It happens through hard work, innovation, and a commitment to doing things the right way.

I recently had the chance to visit Engraved Products and spend time with owner Graves Kiely and his team. It was impressive to see a company that's not only been a leader in its industry for five decades, but is still pushing the envelope with new ideas.

One of the things that stood out to me most is that they've brought all of their production operations to Danbury and are continuing to grow right here in our city. They're also manufacturing their patented Aero-Etch engraving system while using Connecticut-made equipment whenever possible, supporting jobs and businesses across our state.

Businesses like this are exactly why I'm so optimistic about Danbury's future. They innovate, they invest, they create jobs, and they choose to keep growing here.
The next time you need awards, plaques, personalized gifts, or engraving services, consider supporting a company that's proudly doing it in Danbury.

Let's keep supporting the businesses that believe in our city.

Meeting with DCF Officials

Every child deserves the chance to grow up in a safe, loving, and supportive home, no matter their background, language, or story.

I had a great meeting with Glaister Gopie, administrative program director, and his outstanding team at Danbury's CT Department of Children and Families office in their new location at 7 Kenosia Ave.

Danbury is one of the most diverse communities in America, and that diversity is one of our greatest strengths. Children entering foster care come from many different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. There is a tremendous need for caring foster and adoptive families who reflect the rich diversity of our community and can provide stability, love, and hope.

If you've ever considered fostering or adopting, I encourage you to learn more through https://portal.ct.gov/dcf

I know firsthand how life changing that decision can be. I was blessed because two people chose to open their hearts and raise me as one of their own. Their love and support changed the course of my life, and I'll never stop being grateful for that gift.

Whether your family has lived in Danbury for generations or you arrived here from another part of the world, you may be the person who changes a child's future. Together, we can ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.

World Cup Watching in Danbury

The perfect lunch break: Brazil game, São Paulo Brazilian Steakhouse, and great company. If you haven’t been, go see Nagibe and the crew over on Padanaram Road.

The food was phenomenal, but the match had me stressed. I left after the first half thinking Brazil was in trouble, then they pulled off a huge 2-1 win over Japan! Onto the next round!

Always great seeing Yousri Belgaroui, one of Danbury's toughest fighters out of Teixeira MMA & Fitness and now a big fan of my family's hometown, Sobrália, Brazil thanks to Glover Teixeira. Vai Brasil!