On Tuesday, November 5th, Steve Chan, a former NYPD sergeant and U.S. Marine, won the State Senate District 17 race, defeating Democratic incumbent Iwen Chu in a tight contest. Chan received over 29,000 votes, while Chu received 23,500, securing a crucial win for Republicans in southern Brooklyn. The victory marked a significant shift in the political landscape of the area.
Chan moved to Bay Ridge from Hong Kong at 11 and has lived in Bensonhurst since 1992. After retiring from the police force, he became deeply involved in his children’s schools, serving as PTA president and engaging with local educational initiatives. His campaign centered on “common-sense” issues, such as opposition to a controversial homeless shelter in Bensonhurst and a commitment to public safety.
Celebrating his win, Chan reflected on the community’s desire for better representation. “Tonight we won, and it was easy and I’ll tell you why,” he said in his victory speech. “It was easy for our community of 350,000 to realize that we did not have someone representing [us] as well, and tonight they spoke.”
Chan, who has vocally supported former President Donald Trump, was endorsed by the Brooklyn Conservative Party and Republican leader Vito LaBella. He has positioned himself as a staunch advocate for law enforcement and has used his platform to speak out against policies he views as harmful to public safety.
In his victory, Chan received praise from prominent figures within the Republican Party. Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt hailed the win as a significant achievement, stating, “We are thrilled to pick up a Republican seat in New York City and welcome the first Asian-American Republican state senator to our conference.”
Chan’s victory comes amid growing Republican support in traditionally Democratic areas of Brooklyn, fueled by opposition to local policies such as the proposed shelter and concerns over the direction of local governance. Chan’s campaign resonated with many voters, including local activist Lina Chen, who emphasized his responsiveness to community concerns.
With this win, Chan’s success signals a shifting political landscape in Southern Brooklyn, with Republicans now gaining ground in a district that has historically leaned Democratic.
