Iris SanchezServing

Iris Sanchez

State HouseDemocrat

CT-HD-25 State House

Puerto Rican (born in Carolina, Puerto Rico)·State Representative (2026-present)

Why This Race Matters

Sanchez represents Connecticut's 25th House District, a 56% Latino district in New Britain that has been held by Democrats for more than 50 years. She won a special election in January 2026 to succeed Bobby Sanchez (no relation), who resigned to become New Britain's first Puerto Rican mayor.

Won special election 356 to 181 over Republican Jamie Vaughan on January 6, 2026. Sworn in January 13, 2026. Endorsed by Mayor Bobby Sanchez who called her "a tireless worker" who "listens, collaborates, and gets results." CT's 2026 legislative session is a short 13-week session (Feb 4 - May 6).

About

Iris Noemi Sanchez is a Connecticut State Representative serving the 25th House District in New Britain. Born in Carolina, Puerto Rico, she emigrated to New Britain in 1994 after graduating from high school and has lived there for over 30 years. A medical office assistant, caregiver, and single mother of two adult children, she is the longest-serving Democrat on New Britain's Common Council where she served five terms as Alderwoman for District 3 and rose to Assistant Majority Leader. She won a January 2026 special election by nearly 2-to-1 (356-181) to fill the seat vacated when Bobby Sanchez (no relation) was elected mayor.

Family & Heritage

Born in Carolina, Puerto Rico. Emigrated to New Britain, Connecticut in 1994 after graduating from high school. Single mother of two adult children. Has lived in New Britain for over 30 years, settling in a district that is now 56% Latino.

Political Career

Before Politics

Medical office assistant and caregiver; Volunteer with VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program at HRA of New Britain helping residents with free tax preparation

Education

High school graduate (Carolina, Puerto Rico, graduated 1994)

Key Issues & Priorities

*Housing accessibility (championed affordable housing initiatives on council)
*Quality education
*Public safety (championed public safety initiatives and expanded youth engagement programs)
*Infrastructure improvements (addressing street flooding issues)
*Latino community representation (panelist at UConn Latina Campaign School 2025)
*Neighborhood revitalization (addressed blight, expanded Willow Street Park in North-Oak area)

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