Steven Raga

Steven Raga is an American politician currently serving as a member of the New York State Assembly, representing the 30th district. A member of the Democratic Party, Raga was first elected to the Assembly in November 2022 and has since made history as the first Filipino American to serve in the New York State Legislature. His district encompasses various neighborhoods in the borough of Queens, including parts of Woodside, Jackson Heights, Elmhurst, and Maspeth.

Early life and career

Steven Raga was born and raised in Queens, New York City, where he spent his formative years in the neighborhood of Woodside. His upbringing was marked by challenges, as he was raised by a single immigrant mother who faced multiple evictions. These early experiences shaped Raga's perspective on community and public service, motivating him to pursue a career in politics.

Raga's academic background is extensive. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science and a Master of Public Policy from Stony Brook University. Additionally, he holds a Master of Business Administration from the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management at Cornell University, a Master of Science in healthcare management from the Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, and a Master of Public Administration from Baruch College. This diverse educational foundation has equipped him with a broad understanding of public policy, business, and healthcare management.

In 2009, Raga founded Filipino American Unity for Progress, an organization aimed at fostering community engagement and addressing the needs of the Filipino American population. His professional career includes significant roles in various organizations. He served as a senior strategist for AARP, where he focused on issues affecting older adults. Raga also worked as the chief of staff for Assemblymember Brian Barnwell for four years, gaining valuable legislative experience. His career further extended to the nonprofit sector, where he was the northeast regional manager for Susan G. Komen for the Cure and served as the executive director of Woodside on the Move, a community organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in Woodside.

In 2021, Raga sought to expand his political career by running for the New York City Council in the 26th district. However, he was not successful in the Democratic primary, receiving a small percentage of the vote. This experience did not deter him from pursuing public office, and he continued to engage with his community and advocate for their needs.

Legislative service

Raga's political career took a significant turn when he ran for the New York State Assembly in District 30. In the election held on November 8, 2022, he successfully defeated his Republican opponent, Sean Lally, marking a notable achievement in his political journey. His election to the Assembly was historic, as he became the first Filipino American to serve in the New York State Legislature, a milestone that reflects the increasing diversity of representation in American politics.

As a member of the New York State Assembly, Raga has focused on various legislative initiatives. He has been proactive in addressing issues pertinent to his constituents and the broader community. One of his notable proposals includes legislation aimed at enhancing traffic safety in New York City. Raga proposed the installation of 150 speed cameras specifically designed to catch drivers who double park their vehicles. This initiative aims to improve traffic flow and safety in the densely populated urban environment of New York City, where double parking is a common issue that affects both drivers and pedestrians.

Raga was re-elected in 2024, further solidifying his position and influence within the Assembly. His ongoing service reflects his commitment to addressing the needs of his constituents and contributing to the legislative process in New York State.

Policy focus and district

Raga represents Assembly District 30, which encompasses parts of Woodside, Jackson Heights, Elmhurst, and Maspeth in Queens. This district is characterized by its diverse population and vibrant communities, making it essential for Raga to address a wide range of issues affecting his constituents. His policy focus includes community engagement, public safety, healthcare access, and support for immigrant communities.

Given his background and experiences, Raga is particularly attuned to the challenges faced by immigrant families, having grown up in a household that navigated the complexities of life as an immigrant in New York City. His legislative priorities reflect a commitment to advocating for policies that support economic development, education, and healthcare access, particularly for underserved populations.

Raga's work in the Assembly also involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including community organizations, local leaders, and constituents, to ensure that the voices of those he represents are heard in the legislative process. His approach emphasizes the importance of community input in shaping policies that directly impact the lives of residents in his district.

In February 2026, Raga announced his candidacy for the New York State Senate, intending to succeed retiring Senator Michael Gianaris. This decision marks another significant step in his political career, as he seeks to expand his influence and continue advocating for the needs of his community at a higher level of government.

Through his legislative service and community engagement, Steven Raga continues to play a vital role in representing the interests of his constituents in New York State, embodying the values of public service and commitment to community development.