Chen Xueli’s fundraising meeting reiterates that improving law and order is the top priority

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Steve Chan, the Republican candidate vying for the State Senate in New York’s 17th District, recently hosted a fundraising event in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. On the evening of September 27, Chan addressed urgent safety concerns plaguing the Sunset Park to Bensonhurst region. An advocate for maintaining qualified immunity for police, Chan committed to prioritizing community safety by increasing police presence and ensuring that law enforcement has the necessary resources and authority.

The fundraiser was held at the New Phoenix Seafood Restaurant and attracted nearly 500 guests filling 55 tables. Notable attendees included Curtis Sliwa, the GOP candidate for New York City Mayor in 2022, Brooklyn Republican Chair Richard Barsamian, Conservative Party Brooklyn Committee Chair Frances Vella-Marrone, and State Assemblyman David Zheng.

Chan commenced the event by expressing his appreciation to the attendees in Cantonese, reiterating his dedication to enhancing public safety in New York. He emphasized that rather than abolishing qualified immunity, police should be empowered with the flexibility they need to effectively carry out their responsibilities.

In addition to public safety, Chan aims to address issues such as reverse discrimination against Asian students in the education system, government waste on unnecessary projects, and reforms concerning undocumented immigrants and bail laws.

Curtis Sliwa encouraged the community to rally behind Chan, expressing confidence in his potential to better the future for the Asian American community. He reflected on the criticisms surrounding Mayor Eric Adams, stating that Adams “has brought chaos to New York,” while announcing his own intention to run for mayor in 2025, seeking support from the community.

Richard Barsamian lauded Chan’s 27 years of service as a police officer, highlighting this experience as a testament to his patriotism and leadership. He energized the crowd with familiar slogans like “Make America Great Again” and “Make New York Great Again.”

Born in Hong Kong and raised in Taishan, Chan immigrated to the United States at the age of 11. He served six years in the U.S. Marine Corps before dedicating 27 years to the New York City Police Department. Since his retirement in 2020, he has also taken on the role of chair of the Parent Committee at PS 17.

Chan is facing off against the current Democratic incumbent, State Senator Simcha Felder, in the race for the 17th District Senate seat, which encompasses Kensington, Sunset Park, Borough Park, Dyker Heights, Bensonhurst, and Bath Beach. Early voting for New York City’s upcoming elections is scheduled from October 26 to November 3, with Election Day on November 5.