Fil-Am Raga takes grassroots fight to NY Senate race

QUEENS, NEW YORK - From consumer and health protections to environmental and public safety initiatives, Queens Assemblymember Steven Raga is banking on his legislative track record as he sets his sights on the New York State Senate this November.

“I have always stood for Queens and my work as an organizer and now legislator has proven that,” Raga said during a conversation at a Philippine gala in Woodside.

As the race intensifies, Raga and his team are mounting a grassroots campaign to secure the Democratic nomination this summer one they emphasize is powered entirely by community support.

“Our campaign doesn’t take money from real estate developers, corporate lobbyists, police unions, or the fossil fuel industry. We are 100% people-funded and people-fueled,” his campaign website states.

Support from the community has been strong, with donations ranging from $25 to as much as $1,000.

Raga, a Filipino American raised in Queens by his single mother a nurse who made Woodside her second home made history in 2022 as the first Filipino and Asian American elected to the New York State Assembly. His candidacy reflects a broader shift, as immigrant communities in Queens continue to grow in both size and political influence.

During his time in office, Raga has backed several measures focused on improving quality of life for his constituents.

Among them is a youth wellness bill requiring public schools across New York to offer plant-based food options upon request. Once implemented, schools will be mandated to provide plant-based alternatives for all meals and snacks.

He also co-sponsored the “Solar UP Now NY Act,” which promotes the use of portable solar devices. The proposed measure would allow plug-in solar systems up to 1,200 watts to be used without the usual interconnection requirements, eliminating additional fees and simplifying access to renewable energy for residents.

On public safety, Raga supported legislation aimed at prohibiting unauthorized militias from operating in New York without approval from the governor or federal authorization.

Beyond legislation, Raga highlighted major funding secured during his tenure, including $2.1 billion for SUNY and CUNY systems, $800 million for hospitals, $90 million for AAPI nonprofits statewide, and $110 million for Mitchell-Lama housing. His office has also resolved more than 1,400 constituent cases.

Even pet owners are part of his policy agenda. Raga is proposing a measure that would allow New Yorkers to claim up to $150 in tax relief for everyday pet expenses and up to $300 for veterinary costs per pet.

“No one should have to choose between staying afloat and caring for family,” said campaign leader John Bahia.

With a platform rooted in community-driven policies and grassroots support, Raga is positioning himself as a candidate reflective of Queens’ diverse and evolving electorate.