PROUDLY SERVING THE 18TH DISTRICT
State Senator Heather Somers
Senior Deputy Republican Leader
Heather Somers, elected in 2016, represents Connecticut’s 18th district. She is a Chief Deputy Senate Republican Leader and serves as Ranking Member of the Public Health Committee and the Appropriations Committee. Heather has been recognized as a champion of important initiatives in health care, tourism, mental health, senior housing and elder care. She is also a former councilwoman and mayor in her native Groton.
"Together, we can bridge divides and build a brighter future for all Connecticut families."
Representative Menapace’s comments are unfounded and out of line. Suggesting that a fellow lawmaker uses their position to harass others simply demeans the work done both in the chamber and throughout the community. I work very closely with Representative Howard in our district and on a range of issues, and he has consistently conducted himself as a consummate gentleman and public servant.
I have never witnessed any of the behavior that Representative Menapace has alleged.
Representative Howard has been a strong and responsible steward for Eastern Connecticut, and at a time when our delegation should be coming together to deliver for the region as the session comes to a close, these kinds of personal attacks only divide us. We can and will have policy differences, but this situation has become unnecessarily personal and has gone too far. Representative Menapace owes Representative Howard a public apology.A late-night TikTok post by a freshman Democratic lawmaker accusing a Republican colleague of harassment sent the Connecticut House of Representatives into a Friday morning frenzy.
Yesterday on the Capitol’s South Lawn, more than 1,000 nonprofit providers and the people they serve came together with a clear message: Connecticut must meet the funding needs of its nonprofit sector.
These organizations deliver critical human services every day—often at a fraction of the cost, yet with unmatched impact. The workforce behind this care deserves livable wages, respect, and reliable support.
As we finalize the state budget in the closing days of session, this needs to be a priority. I will continue standing with our nonprofit community to ensure they have the resources to keep showing up for Connecticut.
A great day at the Capitol highlighting everything Southeastern CT brings to the table—innovation, history, and community. From Electric Boat to Mystic Seaport Museum to Grijalva Cattle Co., so many incredible organizations were represented. And a definite highlight: some friendly faces from the American Humane Society 🐾