Danbury RTC Calls On Alves To Condemn Union-Linked Vandalism And Clarify Position On Strike Benefit Proposal

**News Release Submitted by The Danbury Republican Town Committee **

June 18, 2025

The Danbury Republican Town Committee is calling on Mayor Roberto Alves—who also serves as Chairman of the Connecticut Democratic Party—to speak out against the disturbing violence and intimidation tactics caught on video during a recent union protest in Connecticut.

Video evidence shows a vehicle belonging to the Yankee Institute being struck by rocks and vandalized, while an individual attempted to pry surveillance equipment off the vehicle. These actions go far beyond peaceful protest and raise serious concerns about public safety and the tone of political discourse in our state.

“Violence and vandalism have no place in any form of civic engagement,” said Michael Coelho, Chairman of the Danbury RTC and City Councilman. “We believe it is important for leaders at every level—including Mayor Alves—to clearly and publicly denounce this type of conduct. Silence in moments like these sends the wrong message.”

The RTC is also demanding clarity on Mayor Alves’s position regarding proposed legislation that would force businesses across Connecticut—including in Danbury—to pay unemployment benefits to striking workers. The controversial proposal which has been championed by Democratic lawmakers and backed by powerful union interests would have direct implications for local business here in Danbury.

“As both the Mayor of Danbury and the Chair of the Democratic State Party, we respectfully ask Mayor Alves to let residents and business owners know where he stands,” Coelho said. “These are serious issues that deserve honest and transparent leadership.”

The Danbury RTC stands with the Connecticut Senate Republican Caucus in condemning the recent acts of vandalism and urging all elected officials—regardless of party—to reject destructive tactics and prioritize productive, respectful dialogue.

“We can have strong differences on policy without condoning behavior that crosses the line” Coelho added. “ We hope Mayor Alves will choose to speak out clearly and join us and all Danbury residents in upholding this principle.”