In a recent political upset, Republican candidate Daniel Norber emerged victorious in the 16th district of New York State, defeating the Democratic incumbent Gina Silitti who had served for two terms. This victory marked the first time in 50 years that a Republican candidate had won in this district. Chinese-American volunteers who participated in the campaign expressed that the rapidly growing Chinese population in the district played a significant role in Norber’s win, as they exhibited strong enthusiasm for voting.
According to Chinese volunteers who supported Norber, the increasing Chinese population in the 16th district tends to focus on issues such as public safety, education, illegal immigration, and the economy, aligning closely with the Republican candidate’s principles. On the other hand, the incumbent legislator had voiced support for cashless bail laws and an “education regionalization plan” that was believed to weaken local control over school districts. Chinese voters were influential in Norber’s victory this time around, as he was perceived to hold common-sense values and paid close attention to issues important to the Chinese community, engaging with residents door-to-door during his campaign.
One Chinese volunteer emphasized that the Chinese-American voter turnout was a crucial force in the election, noting that in the Lake Success polling station on November 5th, 90% of voters in the afternoon and evening were Chinese-Americans who came to vote after work.
The 16th district is located in Nassau County, bordering Queens, and includes areas like Great Neck, Manhasset, Port Washington, Roslyn, Merrick, Garden City, New Hyde Park, Williston, and Williston Park.
Norber has stated that his top priorities upon taking office will include repealing cashless bail for low-level and non-violent crimes, tax reduction, and implementing a statewide mask mandate.
He also acknowledged the power of Asian-American voters. In a statement released to Chinese-language media, Norber expressed gratitude to the Asian community, recognizing their support as crucial to his victory and a key factor in winning the seat after 50 years.
The Chinese volunteer stressed the importance of education for children within the Chinese community, citing Long Island’s excellent school districts as a traditional value. Long Island boasts eight to nine highly regarded school districts in New York State, such as Great Neck, Syosset, Manhasset, and Jericho, prompting many Chinese families to relocate to Long Island for better educational opportunities.
While the property taxes in these school districts are high, averaging $10,000 to $20,000 per year per household, significant financial investments are made into education, with an average of $30,000 allocated per child annually.