James B. Sánchez is a Democratic state representative serving Connecticut's 6th Assembly District, which includes Hartford and Elmwood in West Hartford. He was elected in a special election on February 28, 2023, to complete the term of Edwin Vargas, defeating independent Jason Diaz with 62.1% of the vote, and is currently in his second term . Born and raised in Hartford's North End during the 1960s and 1970s, he is Puerto Rican and lives in Hartford with his wife, Jacqueline; he is a proud father and grandfather. His father owned Sanchez Jewelry and Repair on Main Street. Previously, Sánchez served on the Hartford City Council from 2015 to 2023, where he worked on improving safety, budget solutions, reducing urban blight, addressing environmental issues, and promoting equitable employment and housing. He has been involved in community service as a member of the Democratic Town Committee 6th District, president of the Hartford Diversity Lions Club, and Hartford Evening Lions Club, which support the visually impaired. Currently, he serves as Assistant Majority Leader, Vice Chair of the Energy & Technology Committee, and a member of the Appropriations Committee and Executive & Legislative Nominations Committee.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Graduated from South Catholic High School.
• Military Service: Served four years in the United States Marine Corps, enrolled in the Aviation Ordinance program, with tours in the U.S. and Japan.
• Professional Career: Worked as a coach operator for CT Transit until 1999; since 2000, employed as a technician in the Metropolitan District Commission's Utilities System Monitoring and Surveillance Department, with prior experience as a community affairs assistant.
• Political Experience: Hartford City Council ; Connecticut House of Representatives, District 6 .