John Santanella Sworn in as 58th District State Rep
January 8, 2025State Representative John Santanella was sworn in on Wednesday for his first term and will represent Enfield’s 58th District.
“I am honored to serve the people of Enfield, and I thank them for the privilege they have given me.” Rep. Santanella said. “I want to thank State Representative Tom Arnone for his many years of service to the residents of the 58th District and to wish him well as he transitions to a new phase in his life,” he said of his predecessor who did not seek reelection. “I’m looking forward to the 2025-26 legislative term and representing my district in Hartford. I have already begun working with my legislative colleagues drafting legislation and advocating for the people of my district.”
The swearing-in ceremony occurred in the House Chamber on Opening Day of the 2025 Legislative Session.
Rep. Santanella will serve on the Commerce, Planning and Development, and Public Safety and Security committees.
Santanella grew up in Enfield and went through the public school system, Enfield Street School, JFK, and Enfield High. He graduated from Boston College in 1990 and in 1997 received his MBA in Marketing and Finance from the Carroll School of Management at Boston College as well. After graduating from business school, Santanella worked for Parker Brothers (a division of Hasbro), Milton Bradley, and Nickelodeon TV Network, before returning to Hasbro in 2008. Corporate downsizing led to layoffs at Hasbro. Since then, John has been in the business of buying and selling small businesses in a variety of industry categories. In some cases, taking an active role in the management of the business, and others, acting as an advisor or consultant to the management team.
Santanella has served as Enfield’s Second District Town Councilor since November 2, 2021, and is currently the Democratic Minority Leader. He plans to remain on the Town Council.
As a state representative, Santanella commits to fighting for children and education, in addition to legislation that promotes business around the state, especially small businesses, and key issues impacting business and working families such as affordable health care, childcare, and housing.