November 6, 2024 Brooklyn, New York – Steve Chan, a Hong Kong-born Chinese American Republican, made history in 2024 by winning the New York State Senate seat for District 17. His victory not only makes him the first Asian American Republican elected to the New York State Senate but also unseats the incumbent Democrat Iwen Chu, ending her term and breaking the Democratic supermajority in the Senate. Representing South Brooklyn, District 17 is known for its diverse communities—a place where Chan has long served through military and law enforcement service.
From Hong Kong to Brooklyn: Growing Up in a Multicultural Neighborhood
Born in Hong Kong, Chan immigrated to the United States at the age of 11, settling with his family in the Bay Ridge neighborhood of Brooklyn. Growing up in the 1980s New York, he was surrounded by Scandinavian and Irish communities, where he found friendship and developed respect for cultural diversity and American values. “Brooklyn gave me the warmth of a second home and shaped my understanding of the American Dream,” Chan recalls.
Military Service and Law Enforcement: A Commitment to Combating Crime
Driven by a love for the country, Chan enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1984, serving for six years before being honorably discharged in 1990. In 1992, he moved to Brooklyn’s Bensonhurst neighborhood and joined the New York Police Department (NYPD) the following year. Over his 27-year career with the NYPD, Chan dedicated himself to crime prevention and forged strong bonds with individuals across the community. He retired as an NYPD sergeant in 2020, proud of his years of service in protecting his city.
Education and Community Service: A Continued Commitment
After retiring, Chan became highly active in community service, especially in his daughters’ schools, volunteering as a member of the School Leadership Team, Title 1 Chairperson, Parent Advisory Council, and PTA President. Passionate about education, he has worked to support schools and improve learning environments, advocating to give every child a fair opportunity to succeed.
A Family-Driven Campaign
As a father of two daughters, Chan’s motivation is rooted in family and service to his community. He believes that family values, personal responsibility, and community progress are core to the American Dream. “I’m running for my family. Everything I do is for a better future for them and for this community,” Chan said.
Looking Forward: A Voice for South Brooklyn
Chan’s election signifies a significant change in the New York State Senate’s political landscape. He hopes to improve the quality of life for residents in South Brooklyn by advancing policies focused on education support and community safety. His victory represents not only a personal milestone but also a broader support for diverse leadership and community-centered priorities.
