On the evening of September 27th, Steve Chan, the Republican candidate for New York’s 17th State Senate District, hosted a lively fundraising event at the New Phoenix Seafood Restaurant in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. With nearly 500 supporters gathered at 55 tables, Chan took the opportunity to address key safety concerns affecting neighborhoods from Sunset Park to Bensonhurst. Firmly opposing the elimination of qualified immunity for police officers, he emphasized that his main goal, if elected, would be to enhance police presence and ensure they have the resources and authority needed to support community safety.
Chan began the night by expressing his gratitude in Cantonese, setting a warm tone for the evening. He reiterated his commitment to improving safety in New York, arguing that providing police with the flexibility to effectively do their jobs is essential.
Throughout the event, Chan also touched on several other pressing issues he plans to tackle, including addressing reverse discrimination against Asians in the education system, combating government waste, the situation of undocumented immigrants, and the complexities of bail reform.
Curtis Sliwa, the Republican candidate for New York City mayor in 2022, rallied the crowd to support Chan, expressing his confidence that Chan can usher in a brighter future for the Asian community. On recent controversies surrounding Mayor Adams, Sliwa criticized him for having “brought chaos to New York City,” while revealing his own plans to run for mayor in 2025 and seeking continued community backing.
Richard Barsamian, the Brooklyn Republican chairman, lauded Chan’s impressive 27-year law enforcement career as a testament to his patriotism and pride as a Chinese American. He energized the room with slogans like “Make America Great Again” and “Make New York Great Again.”
Originally from Taishan, Chan moved from Hong Kong to the U.S. at age 11 and served six years in the U.S. Marine Corps before joining the New York City Police Department. After retiring from the force in 2020, he took on the role of chair of the parent committee at PS 17.
Chan is vying for the 17th District against incumbent Democratic State Senator Simcha Felder, representing neighborhoods like Kensington, Sunset Park, Borough Park, Dyker Heights, Bensonhurst, and Bath Beach. Early voting for this year’s general election in New York City is scheduled for October 26 to November 3, with Election Day on November 5.
