Juan CandelariaServing

Juan Candelaria

State HouseDemocrat

CT-HD-95 State House

Age 55·Puerto Rican·Deputy Speaker Pro Tempore (2025-present)

Why This Race Matters

Candelaria is one of the longest-serving Latino legislators in Connecticut, having represented New Haven's HD-95 since 2002. As the first Latino Deputy Speaker in state history and NHCSL President-Elect, he is a leading voice for Latino political representation at both the state and national level.

Candelaria won unopposed in 2024 with 3,454 votes (100%). His current title is Deputy Speaker Pro Tempore (2025-present). He chairs or co-chairs key committees including Appropriations and Education. The CT primary is scheduled for August 11, 2026, with the general election November 3, 2026.

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

About

Juan Candelaria is a Connecticut State Representative representing District 95 in New Haven. He assumed office in 2003 and became the first Latino to hold the position of Deputy Speaker in 2017. He has been instrumental in spearheading Connecticut's efforts to legalize recreational marijuana and passing legislation to allow undocumented immigrants to apply for driver's licenses.

Family & Heritage

Born in Hatillo, Puerto Rico. Moved to New Haven, Connecticut, where he has spent his career in public service. Has two children. His Puerto Rican roots drive his advocacy for the Latino community, including securing disaster relief funding for hurricane victims from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Political Career

Before Politics

Sales Manager at TD Bank North; private sector managerial and marketing roles; New Haven Alderman (2001-2002); Town Committee Ward Chair (1999-2005)

Education

B.A. from Albertus Magnus College; M.B.A. from University of New Haven

Key Issues & Priorities

*Marijuana legalization
*Immigrant driver's licenses
*Bilingual education
*Institutional financial aid access
*Tax exemption for feminine hygiene products
*Disaster relief for Puerto Rico

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