By D.M.Livingston|Published Dec 1, 2025

WATERBURY — In a milestone moment for the South End and surrounding neighborhoods, Waterbury’s 5th District is now represented by three Latino elected officials — a first in the city’s modern political history.

The district, which includes the South End, Central Business District (CBD), Lower Hillside, Washington Park, and Hamilton Park, is one of the most culturally rich and predominantly Spanish-speaking areas of the city. For the first time, it is being represented entirely by Latino leaders across both parties:

• Sandra Martinez-McCarthy (D)
• Rafael Feliciano-Roman (D)
• Adrian Sanchez (R)

Together, their election marks a historic shift and a vivid display of Latino pride, voice, and political power in a city undergoing rapid demographic and civic transformation.

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A Community Finally Reflected in Its Leadership

For decades, residents of the 5th District have called for leadership that understands the neighborhood’s culture, challenges, and hopes from lived experience. With this new trio, the district now has a team that speaks its languages — literally and culturally.

Their presence sends a powerful message:
Waterbury’s Spanish-speaking community is no longer on the sidelines of local government. It is at the table.

A Diverse, Dynamic Trio

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Despite representing different political philosophies, all three Aldermen share deep roots in their communities:

• Martinez-McCarthy has long been an advocate for families, education, and neighborhood safety.
• Feliciano-Roman brings a bold, reform-focused energy aimed at strengthening transparency and uplifting underserved communities.
• Sanchez, the Republican voice in the trio, represents the diversity of thought within the Latino community while also advocating for economic development and public safety.

What makes their representation historic is not only their cultural identity — but the fact that they span two political parties, demonstrating that Latino leadership in Waterbury is broad, powerful, and multifaceted.

A Moment of Latino Pride in a Changing Waterbury

The 5th District has always been the heartbeat of the city’s Latino population — to see three Latino officials stand together, side-by-side, elected by their neighbors, is a moment many elders, community leaders, and families have waited generations to witness.

This is more than representation.
It’s a turning point. A statement. A celebration.

A Waterbury where Latino voices are leading, shaping policy, and defining the city’s future.

A Unified Message to the Community

Residents greeted the news with pride and emotion, noting how rare it is for a city to have an entire district represented by leaders who understand bilingual households, cultural traditions, and the day-to-day realities of the neighborhood.

With their shared heritage and distinct perspectives, Martinez-McCarthy, Feliciano-Roman, and Sanchez are poised to bring stronger advocacy, deeper community engagement, and a new era of political visibility for Latino families across the 5th District.

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With three Latino Aldermen now working on behalf of the 5th District, residents can expect deeper engagement, stronger advocacy, and leadership shaped by lived experience. This historic alignment is more than a milestone—it’s a commitment to every family, business, and neighbor who calls the South End, Washington Park, Lower Hillside, Hamilton Park, and the CBD home. The community has spoken, and its message is clear: representation matters.