Downes to return to Capitol as Senate Republicans chief of staff.

Michael Downes, former head of communications for the House Republicans, will replace John Healey as the Senate Republican Office chief of staff, Daily Ructions has learned.

The former major in the First Company Governor’s Horse Guard was well regarded during the his seven-year stint with the minority party in the lower chamber. Downes is currently the town manager of North Branford. He was elected to that community’s town council four times.

Downes earned a Masters in Public Administration from Villanova, continuing a big year for that Philadelphia area school. He majored in political science at Southern Connecticut State University. He is expected to devote his full efforts to the 11 Senate Republicans who serve in the 36-member body.

Published December 8, 2025.