Neck-and-neck race emerges between Raga and Kawas in Queens

NEW YORK - The race for an open State Senate seat in Queens is shaping up to be highly competitive, with Assemblymember Steven Raga and Democratic Socialists of America-backed candidate Aber Kawas reporting nearly identical fundraising totals.

Both candidates are seeking to succeed Michael Gianaris, the longtime deputy majority leader who is set to retire.

Recent campaign finance filings show that Raga and Kawas each raised approximately $39,000 during the latest reporting period, with Kawas holding a slight edge of about $500.

Despite the narrow gap in fundraising, Raga reported a stronger cash position, with $71,000 on hand compared to Kawas’ $50,000.

Raga’s campaign is projecting about $163,000 in public matching funds after reaching the required threshold through contributions from more than 220 donors within the district.

Kawas’ campaign, meanwhile, is projecting total resources of around $200,000 once matching funds are included.

Kawas, a Palestinian organizer, initially launched a campaign for the State Assembly before shifting to the Senate race. He has received backing from the Democratic Socialists of America, which has gained increasing influence in New York City politics.

Raga currently represents a portion of Western Queens in the State Assembly and is running on a platform centered on grassroots support and community engagement.

A third candidate, Sheryl Fetik, who previously ran for City Council in 2021, reported raising $1,226 and having $893 remaining in campaign funds.

With no incumbent in the race, the contest is expected to intensify in the coming months as candidates seek to secure endorsements, expand outreach, and maximize New York’s public campaign finance matching system.