Steven Raga Concedes New York Senate Primary, Vows to Continue Fighting for Working Families

QUEENS, N.Y. — New York Assemblymember Steven Raga conceded defeat in the Democratic primary for the New York State Senate's 12th District, congratulating opponent Aber Kawas and pledging to continue serving the communities of Western Queens.

In a concession statement, Raga described the campaign as one rooted in principles rather than personalities and called for unity following the closely contested race.

"I congratulate Aber Kawas and extend my hand to her in partnership and community," Raga said. "This election was hard fought, but it was fought on principle, not personalities."

Raga thanked the hundreds of volunteers, labor unions, and community supporters who powered his grassroots campaign. According to the campaign, more than 150 volunteers knocked on over 60,000 doors, while the campaign secured more than 45 endorsements, including nearly 30 from labor organizations.

Although disappointed by the outcome, Raga said the campaign succeeded in building a people-powered movement centered on immigrants, workers, families, and longtime residents of Western Queens.

"We built more than a campaign," he said. "We built a people-powered movement rooted in the neighborhoods of Western Queens."

Raga also urged supporters to remain focused on broader political challenges, including protecting immigrant communities, defending working families, and opposing what he described as President Donald Trump's authoritarian agenda.

Reflecting on his own upbringing, Raga shared the personal experiences that inspired his commitment to public service. He recalled arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport as a seven-year-old to watch his immigrant father return home to die because the family could not afford the medical care he needed. He also spoke of his mother working multiple jobs while struggling to avoid eviction.

"I learned that these tragedies are not inevitable. They are the result of policy choices," Raga said. "I know this because I have lived it."

Raga vowed to continue advocating for affordable healthcare, housing, immigrant justice, and human dignity despite the election loss.

"This campaign may be ending, but our work is not," he said. "I will never stop fighting for the communities that raised me."

He concluded by expressing optimism for the future, saying the movement built during the campaign belongs to the people of Western Queens and that "its story is far from over."