State Sen. Tony Hwang (R-Fairfield) delivered a farewell address in the State Senate circle as colleagues honored his nearly two decades of service in the Connecticut General Assembly ahead of the close of the legislative session on May 6. Hwang served six years in the House of Representatives before joining the State Senate in 2014.
Hwang, who was the first Asian American elected to the Senate, spoke about his experience as an immigrant and reflected on public service and its responsibilities. He said, “We are truly blessed to sit in this esteemed and honored circle. It has been a great accomplishment and privilege of my life to serve here. What I’ve learned first and foremost is that dignified public service is to be respected, nurtured, and supported.”
He described arriving in the United States as a child immigrant and serving as a role model for future generations despite facing bias while pursuing financial security and social acceptance. “I remember the first day I was in this chamber, talking about the immigrant experience and becoming the first Asian American elected into the Senate, which first convened in 1819,” he said. “We have an important responsibility as role models. How we conduct ourselves in this circle reflects the type of governance and community we want and aspire to be.”
Colleagues recognized Hwang’s bipartisan approach, civility during debates, commitment to transparency, accountability, public health initiatives, environmental stewardship, public safety efforts, and deep ties with his community.
Hwang emphasized that public service continues beyond holding office: “We don’t ever stop being servants and community members. It’s our calling to serve and be an integral part of our community.” He thanked his family for their support throughout his career as well as residents from several towns for entrusting him with representation.
Reflecting on representing Sandy Hook/Newtown after tragedy there he said: “I’m honored and privileged by that trust. Another responsibility that I hold very dearly is representing the people of Sandy Hook/Newtown and ensuring violent tragedies like that never occur again. It is important in my role as a community leader to lead us toward healing and not divisiveness.”
State Sen. Pat Billie Miller (D-Stamford) recalled entering office alongside Hwang: “You never forgot your journey. You never forgot your struggle…It’s your heart…You have a heart for people…I consider you my brother…”
Senate President Pro Tem Martin Looney (D-New Haven) praised Hwang’s respect for tradition: “Senator Hwang embodies the best traditions of this chamber…That sense of decorum is always something that his example has brought to fore.”
Senate Minority Leader Stephen Harding (R-Brookfield) added: “Tony has always been a great moral guide…He embodies everything a public servant should be…”
Concluding his remarks about legislative bonds formed over years together at Capitol Hill chambers Hwang said: “No matter where we go after this career, we will always be part of this circle. For that I will always be grateful.”
