Stephen T. Chan

New York State Senator STEPHEN T. CHAN (R) 17th SENATE DISTRICT 陳學理

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Personal History

Senator Stephen T. Chan was born in Hong Kong and immigrated to the United States with his family at the age of 11. His family settled in the beautiful neighborhood of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, surrounded by Scandinavian and Irish cultures, wonderful neighbors, and lifelong friends. From a young age, Senator Chan worked diligently in a variety of jobs, including in a sweatshop, a plastic factory, and as a dishwasher, all before graduating from high school.

He has lived in Brooklyn for 47 years, including 32 years in Bensonhurst, where he has built lasting friendships with people from all over the world. He feels a deep connection to the Italian community in particular, where he has been warmly embraced and developed many enduring relationships.

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Career

Senator Chan’s love for America inspired him to serve his country as a United States Marine for six years. After completing his service, he moved to Bensonhurst in 1992 and became deeply involved in the life of his community. In 1993, he joined the New York City Police Department, where he served with distinction for 27 years and retired as a Sergeant in 2020. During his career, he worked closely with people from diverse backgrounds and learned about the unique strengths and challenges of New York’s many communities.

While serving in the NYPD, Senator Chan also owned and operated a small retail flower shop in Sunset Park for many years. In addition, as a Notary Public, he has provided free notary services to his neighbors as part of his commitment to community service.

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Family and the American Dream / Public School Service

Senator Chan is married and has two daughters, ages 10 and 16, who both attend New York City public schools. His older daughter earned admission to Staten Island Technical High School through her own hard work and academic achievement, while his younger daughter currently attends IS 187.

Senator Chan has been an active parent in their education, serving as an SLT member, Title I Chairperson, and PTA President. Through his example, he has instilled in his children the values of discipline, gratitude, and perseverance. He believes deeply in the American Dream and has worked tirelessly to provide his family with stability, respect, and opportunity.

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A proud homeowner, Senator Chan believes in strengthening the community for everyone. His children are not privileged, but they excel through effort and determination. He has taught them to take personal responsibility for their future and to never allow obstacles or negativity to stand in their way. In America, he believes, success is achievable for anyone who works hard and treats others with respect.

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While in Office

As a State Senator, Stephen Chan is committed to preserving the values that make New York’s communities strong. Having fought crime in the streets, he now works in Albany to make communities safer, schools stronger, and government more accountable. He is focused on eliminating wasteful spending, reducing unnecessary bureaucracy, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly so that hardworking families can live and work with greater ease.

Senator Chan believes in the power of community and collaboration. He wants every child to have access to an excellent education free from bias and political influence. His goal is to build a more affordable, efficient, and united New York where families can thrive.

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Achievements

 * First Asian American Republican elected to the New York State Senate

 * First Asian Police Officer elected to the New York State Senate

 * Helped overturn the New York State Senate Democrat supermajority