Ezequiel Santiago Explained

Ezequiel Santiago
State House:Connecticut
District:130th
Term Start:2009
Term End:March 15, 2019
Predecessor:Felipe Reinoso
Successor:Antonio Felipe
Birth Date:April 22, 1973
Birth Place:Camden, New Jersey, U.S.
Death Place:Bridgeport, Connecticut, U.S.
Party:Democratic
Relatives:Americo Santiago (father)
Alma Mater:Gibbs College

Ezequiel Santiago (April 22, 1973 – March 15, 2019) was an American politician.

Early life

Santiago was born in Camden, New Jersey.[1] He moved with his family to Bridgeport, Connecticut.[1] Santiago worked on the political campaigns of his father Americo Santiago and stepfather Mitch Robles.[2] His father also served in the Connecticut General Assembly. Ezequiel Santiago served on the Bridgeport City Council until 2008,[3] when he ran for the open seat in the 130th district of the Connecticut House of Representatives.[1] Santiago took office as a member of the Democratic Party in 2009, succeeding Felipe Reinoso.[4] [5]

Sudden Death

Ezequiel Santiago, a Democratic State Representative for Connecticut’s 130th District, passed away at 45 due to a heart attack. Santiago, known for his dedication to Bridgeport, served as a City Councilman and State Representative for over a decade. In 2019, he was elected to lead Bridgeport’s legislative delegation and was also involved with the Conservation Corps and the Public Facilities Department.

Governor Ned Lamont ordered flags to fly at half-staff in Santiago's honor, praising his commitment to public service and his community. Santiago, who was remembered for his thoughtful and effective approach, made significant contributions, including supporting the Steelpointe Harbor redevelopment.

State Representative Chris Rosario expressed deep sadness, noting Santiago’s unexpected death and his impact as a mentor and friend. Santiago was active in various legislative roles, including chairing the Banking Committee and serving on Appropriations and Commerce. His early political career included volunteer work for his father’s campaigns and various local positions.

Notes and References

  1. News: Lockhart . Brian . Bridgeport state Rep. Ezequiel Santiago dies at 45 . March 18, 2019 . Connecticut Post . March 16, 2019.
  2. News: Shay . Jim . State Rep. Ezequiel Santiago funeral services at the Klein . March 19, 2019 . Connecticut Post . March 18, 2019.
  3. News: Blair . Russell . Bridgeport state Rep. Ezequiel Santiago, 45, dies suddenly . March 18, 2019 . Hartford Courant . March 15, 2019.
  4. News: Pazniokas . Mark . Rep. Ezequiel Santiago of Bridgeport dies of heart attack . March 18, 2019 . Connecticut Mirror . March 15, 2019.
  5. Web site: Connecticut State Library-Connecticut General Assembly Members-database. ctstatelibrary.org. March 17, 2019.