Geraldo Reyes Jr.Serving

Geraldo Reyes Jr.

State HouseDemocrat

CT-HD-75 State House

Puerto Rican·Deputy Speaker, Connecticut House of Representatives (2025-present)

Why This Race Matters

As Deputy Speaker of the Connecticut House, Reyes holds one of the highest leadership positions of any Latino legislator in New England. A former Chair of the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus (2021-2022), he shapes environmental and appropriations policy from his committee seats. His district in Waterbury is a hub of Connecticut's Puerto Rican community, and he has run unopposed in four consecutive general elections, reflecting deep community support.

Connecticut primary is August 11, 2026 with a filing deadline of June 9, 2026. No opponents have filed yet. Reyes has won the 75th District seat unopposed since 2020. He was first elected via special election in 2016 with 75% of the vote. His immigration story -- arriving from Puerto Rico at 17 with no diploma and working as a janitor -- is central to his political identity.

Key dates to watch: Primary on August 11, 2026 and General Election on November 3, 2026.

About

Geraldo Reyes Jr. is a Connecticut State Representative for the 75th Assembly District in Waterbury, serving since 2016. He grew up as a coffee bean farmer in the mountains of Utuado, Puerto Rico before coming to Bridgeport, Connecticut alone at age 17 without a high school diploma. He worked as a janitor and landscaper before earning his GED, eventually building a 36-year career in manufacturing engineering and rising to general manager at Sargent Manufacturing. Now serving as Deputy Speaker, he is one of the most senior Latino legislators in Connecticut.

Family & Heritage

Born and raised in Utuado, Puerto Rico, in the island's mountainous interior. Grew up working as a coffee bean farmer. Came to Bridgeport, Connecticut alone at age 17, arriving without a high school diploma. Worked as a janitor and landscaper before earning his GED. Met and married his wife Hilda in 1985. Studied at the Bible Institute Assemblies of God in Costa Rica. Built a 36-year career in manufacturing, rising from the factory floor to general manager.

Political Career

Before Politics

Coffee bean farmer in Utuado, Puerto Rico; Janitor and landscaper in Bridgeport, CT; Manufacturing Engineer (36 years); General Manager and Supplier Quality Manager at Sargent Manufacturing (2002-2010); Administrative aide to Waterbury Mayor Neil O'Leary (2011-2015); Journalist and photographer for The Waterbury Observer (2016-present); Pastor of Shekinah Christian Church

Education

A.S. in Industrial Technology from Waterbury State Technical College; B.S. in Industrial Technology Management from Central Connecticut State University; Business Administration coursework at University of New Haven (1992-1993); Bible Institute Assemblies of God, Costa Rica

Key Issues & Priorities

*Environmental protection and conservation
*Mental health advocacy
*Social justice and equity
*Community development in Waterbury
*Manufacturing and workforce development
*Public transportation infrastructure

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