✰PREMIUM State Senator Stephen Chan’s inauguration makes history
NYS Sen. Stephen Chan alongside his family, being sworn in by Congressmember Nicole Malliotakis (R-11). Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
By Wayne Daren Schneiderman
February 18, 2025
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DYKER HEIGHTS — It’s one for the history books.
Stephen Chan has officially become the first Asian-American Republican to hold the State Senate seat, representing southern Brooklyn’s 17th Senate District (Bensonhurst, Bath Beach, Bay Ridge, parts of Sunset Park, Kensington and Dyker Heights).
Curtis Sliwa (left) alongside Ari Kagan. Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
At an inaugural ceremony held at New Utrecht High School Saturday, Jan. 25, before a sizable crowd and diverse array of speakers, Chan was sworn in by Congressmember Nicole Malliotakis (R-11), and received a standing ovation from his supporters.
“Why are you all applauding me?” Chan asked. “You guys deserve all the applause.”
From left: Fran Vella-Marrone, NYS Sen. Stephen Chan and Jerry Kassar. Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
Malliotakis, who said she was honored to perform the Oath of Office, noted that Chan, “truly loves Brooklyn, our city and our country.”
She added that Chan understands the challenges that everyday Americans are facing, such as rising costs, increased property taxes and the importance of safe streets.
“I love America. I love New York,” Chan told the Brooklyn Eagle. “I love my city, and I love my neighborhood. But I’m here not as a politician, but as a fighter for our community.”
NYS Sen. Stephen Chan (left) and former State Sen. Marty Golden. Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
“My ultimate goal is to help preserve the good values of our community, our city and our state,” Chan continued. “I fought crime in the streets, and now I want to fight crime from Albany.”
Chan also pointed out that whether Republican or Democrat, he is interested in being a senator for everyone.
From left: NYS Sen. Stephen Chan, Curtis Sliwa and Congressmember Nicole Malliotakis (R-11). Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
“I want to hear people’s concerns,” he said. “I’m not working for me, I’m working for my community.”
Marty Golden, who made a surprise, unannounced appearance, told the audience while addressing Chan, “We need you now more than ever. Albany is out of control. You broke the supermajority, and I know you will make a difference. Crime will come down, our economy is going to get better. I’m truly looking forward to seeing what the future brings.”
NYS Sen. Stephen Chan alongside his supporters. Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
Richie Barsamian, chair of the Brooklyn Republican Party, called Chan “a great friend and a true leader in the community.”
“There is a reason why this room is packed wall to wall,” Barsamian said.
Fran Vella-Marrone, Kings County Conservative Party chair, referred to Chan as “a fighter who represents everyone.”
Assemblymember Lester Chang (R-49), pointed out that Chan, his “partner in the State legislature, is a man of great character.”
NYS Sen. Stephen Chan beside his family and elected officials. Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
A former U.S. Marine and retired NYPD sergeant, Chan was born in Hong Kong and immigrated to the United States at the age of 11 with his family, originally calling Bay Ridge his home. He later served as a U.S. Marine for six years; and upon returning from service, moved to Bensonhurst in 1992. Chan joined the NYPD in 1993, retiring as a sergeant in 2020. He is married with two daughters.
SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.
ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.
