On January 25, 2025 (Saturday), the auditorium of New Utrecht High School in Brooklyn was filled with guests witnessing the inauguration of Steve Chan as a New York State Senator. Family members, friends, elected officials, community leaders, and residents of South Brooklyn all participated in this historic moment.
In the 2024 election for the 17th district of South Brooklyn, Chan defeated his Democratic opponent seeking reelection by over 10%, becoming the first Asian-American Republican to be elected as a New York State Senator. His election resulted in the Democratic party losing its supermajority in the State Senate (requiring 42 seats), with the party now holding only 41 seats, unable to overturn the governor’s veto power on its own. While the adjustment in this political landscape (increasing the Republicans to 22 seats) has limited impact on the balance of power within the state government, it holds significant symbolic meaning.
In his inaugural speech, Chan expressed gratitude to his family and constituents, emphasizing his mission to be a voice for the people. He stated, “I am tired of the bureaucratic ways of the state legislature, increasing taxes and fees while passing laws that make our streets more dangerous. The Asian-American community I represent is no longer a silent minority; we will join hands with all ethnicities to become a decisive force in South Brooklyn.” He pledged to advocate in the state legislature for addressing community affordability, crime issues, and upholding merit-based admission policies to ensure the strength and prosperity of the community.
Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis presided over the swearing-in ceremony, praising Chan’s leadership and saying, “As the first Asian-American Republican Senator, Steve Chan has inspired more people to engage in public service, and I look forward to working with him.”
Guests at the celebratory event included New York State Conservative Party Chairman Gerard Kassar, Brooklyn Republican Party Chairman Richard Barsamian, Brooklyn Conservative Party Chairman Fran Vella-Marrone, Assemblyman Condon of the 47th district, Assemblyman Yung Jia Zheng of the 49th district, Councilwoman Men Yee Chan, Assemblyman Michael Novakhov of the 45th district, Assemblyman Alec Brook-Krasny of the 46th district, former Brooklyn Republican Senator Marty Golden, former mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, and many other political and community leaders.
Brooklyn Republican Party Chairman Richard Barsamian stated, “Steve Chan will bring his passion to the New York State Senate, and Brooklyn is proud of his dedication and grateful for the unity of the Asian-American community.”
In addition to the formal ceremony, there were rich cultural performances at the event, with a mix of Asian and Western cuisine provided by local businesses symbolizing the integration of diverse cultures and showcasing the ethnic unity behind Steve Chan’s election victory.
It is worth noting that several Democratic and Republican lawmakers attended the ceremony, demonstrating the power of bipartisan cooperation. Democratic Councilwoman Men Yee Chan thanked Steve Chan for his longstanding advocacy for community welfare, stating, “Regardless of party affiliation, we should prioritize the interests of the people and work together to make the community better.”
Assemblyman Yung Jia Zheng mentioned that Steve Chan’s political career is built on the foundation of selfless dedication to the community. Having previously served as a police officer in the New York City Police Department, he has devoted himself to educational advocacy, serving as chairman of multiple parent associations. His successful election marks the culmination of his years of silent dedication and signifies a significant advancement for Asian-Americans on the political stage.