Noah Burroughs

Noah Burroughs is an American politician affiliated with the Democratic Party and the Working Families Party, currently serving as a member of the New York State Assembly representing the 18th District. He was elected in the 2024 general election for the term spanning 2025 to 2026. His district encompasses several communities in Nassau County, including Hempstead, Baldwin, Freeport, Lakeview, Roosevelt, and Uniondale. In addition to his political career, Burroughs has a background as a former professional football player and a long-standing educator in the Hempstead school system.

Early life and career

Noah Burroughs was born on June 11, 1976. He pursued higher education at the University at Buffalo, where he studied Sociology. His academic journey continued at Touro University, where he earned dual Master's degrees in special education and education administration. This educational background laid the foundation for his subsequent career in teaching, which has spanned two decades in the Hempstead school district. Throughout his teaching career, Burroughs has focused on history, contributing to the education of many students in the community.

Before entering politics, Burroughs had a notable career in professional sports. He played American football for the New York Jets from 2000 to 2003, a period during which he gained experience in teamwork, leadership, and public engagement. Following his time in the NFL, he transitioned to coaching, taking on roles at Hempstead High School and Nassau Community College. His coaching experience not only reflects his commitment to sports but also his dedication to mentoring young athletes and fostering their development both on and off the field.

Burroughs has often cited his parents as significant influences in his life, particularly in shaping his values and commitment to public service. His father was involved in the civil rights movement, working alongside notable figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. in Atlanta. This familial legacy of activism has informed Burroughs's approach to politics and community service, motivating him to engage in efforts that promote social justice and equity.

Legislative service

Burroughs's political career began to take shape when he was elected as a trustee of the Village of Hempstead in 2021, a position he held during 2022 and 2023. In this role, he focused on various community issues, including advocating for improvements to water infrastructure. He worked to address concerns related to elevated levels of 1,4-dioxane, a contaminant found in drinking water, which highlighted his commitment to public health and environmental safety. Additionally, Burroughs was involved in initiatives to enhance local parks, recognizing the importance of green spaces for community well-being.

His tenure as a trustee also included efforts to support housing initiatives in Hempstead, particularly in response to an influx of asylum seekers. Burroughs played a role in the development of mixed-income housing, demonstrating his commitment to addressing housing needs and fostering inclusive communities. These experiences as a local leader helped to establish his reputation as a dedicated public servant and laid the groundwork for his subsequent campaign for the New York State Assembly.

In April 2024, Burroughs announced his candidacy for the New York State Assembly's 18th District, following the announcement of Taylor Darling's run for the State Senate. He entered the Democratic primary election, competing against Lisa Ortiz, the president of the Lakeview Civic Association. Burroughs won the primary election in June, securing the Democratic Party's nomination with a significant portion of the vote. His campaign continued to gain momentum, culminating in a decisive victory in the general election held on November 5, 2024. Burroughs received a substantial majority of the votes cast, defeating his Republican opponent, Danielle Smikle.

Policy focus and district

As a newly elected member of the New York State Assembly, Burroughs has outlined a comprehensive platform that addresses various issues pertinent to his constituents in the 18th District. His campaign emphasized the need for improvements to infrastructure, particularly in relation to sewer and water utilities. Burroughs has expressed a commitment to enhancing the quality and security of schools in the district, recognizing the critical role that education plays in community development and individual opportunity.

Housing affordability is another key focus of Burroughs's legislative agenda. He has advocated for policies aimed at addressing the high cost of housing on Long Island, which has become a pressing concern for many residents. Burroughs has suggested that tax breaks for restaurants and businesses could stimulate economic growth, potentially increasing the number of local businesses and alleviating some of the financial burdens faced by homeowners.

In terms of education policy, Burroughs has taken a firm stance against the public funding of charter schools, arguing that such funding diverts resources from public schools without requiring the same accountability standards. He has called for a restructuring of Nassau Community College and reforms at Nassau University Medical Center, addressing issues related to nepotism and budget deficits that have plagued these institutions.

Burroughs's approach to governance reflects a commitment to community engagement and responsiveness to the needs of his constituents. His background as an educator and coach informs his perspective on the importance of collaboration and support within the community. As he begins his legislative career, Burroughs aims to leverage his experiences and insights to advocate for policies that promote equity, sustainability, and the overall well-being of the residents in his district. Through his work, he seeks to build a stronger, more inclusive community in Nassau County.