Clyde Vanel

Clyde Vanel is a member of the New York State Assembly, representing the 33rd district. A Democrat, he currently holds the position of chair of the Committee on Banks and chair of the Subcommittee on Internet and New Technology. Vanel has a background as an intellectual property attorney and entrepreneur, and he has been actively involved in various legislative initiatives focusing on technology and business law. His district encompasses several neighborhoods in Queens, including Cambria Heights, St. Albans, Hollis, Queens Village, Bellerose, and parts of Floral Park.

Early life and career

Clyde Vanel was born on June 19, 1974, in Queens, New York. He grew up in the Cambria Heights neighborhood, where he was raised alongside nine siblings. His early life in a large family likely instilled in him a sense of community and the importance of public service. Vanel pursued higher education at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where he became involved in student leadership as a member of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity. He earned an Associate's degree in Aerospace Technology and later a Bachelor's degree in Aviation Administration from Farmingdale State College. During his time at Farmingdale, he served as the President of the student government, showcasing his leadership skills early on.

Vanel continued his education by obtaining a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Boston University. While at law school, he took on the role of editor-in-chief of the Journal of Science & Technology Law, indicating his interest in the intersection of law and technology. After completing his legal education, he began his professional career as an intellectual property attorney at Fish & Neave, which was recognized as one of the largest intellectual property law firms in the United States at that time. The firm was later acquired by Ropes & Gray, LLP. Vanel currently practices law at the Vanel Law Firm, focusing on business law, intellectual property, and trademark law.

In addition to his legal career, Vanel is an entrepreneur and small business owner. He owned a restaurant and bar called Vanel's on First in Lower Manhattan from 2005 to 2011. He has also developed a product known as Clean Bee shirt collar protectors, which he sells online and through platforms like Amazon. His entrepreneurial spirit extends to the technology sector, where he operates TrademarkReady.com, a website that provides trademark services. Vanel's diverse professional background reflects a commitment to innovation and business development.

In a notable incident in March 2023, Vanel survived a plane crash while flying his single-engine Beechcraft Bonanza in Long Island. The aircraft experienced engine failure, prompting him to make an emergency landing on Shoreham beach. Fortunately, he emerged from the situation without injuries. Vanel is a commercial-rated pilot and an aircraft owner, as well as the founder of the New York Metro chapter of the Black Pilots of America, which promotes diversity in aviation.

Legislative service

Clyde Vanel's political career began with his first run for public office in 2009, when he contested the Democratic primary for the New York City Council against incumbent Leroy Comrie. Although he did not win that election, receiving 38% of the vote compared to Comrie's 62%, Vanel continued to pursue opportunities in public service. He made another attempt to secure a position in the New York State Assembly in 2010, running against Barbara M. Clark in the Democratic primary, but again faced defeat, garnering 37% of the vote.

Vanel's efforts to enter the Assembly continued in subsequent years, as he ran against Clark once more in 2012, ultimately losing with 36% of the vote. In 2013, he sought a seat on the city council again, this time for an open position following Comrie's departure. He finished as a close second in a competitive six-way primary.

In 2016, following the death of incumbent Barbara M. Clark, Vanel seized the opportunity to run for the Assembly seat. He successfully won the Democratic primary with 32% of the vote in a five-way race and subsequently secured victory in the general election. Since taking office, Vanel has been actively involved in legislative matters, particularly as chair of the Committee on Banks and chair of the Subcommittee on Internet and New Technology. His leadership roles allow him to influence policies related to financial institutions and emerging technologies.

Throughout his legislative career, Vanel has introduced and sponsored various bills addressing a range of topics, including blockchain technology, cryptocurrency, Internet sales tax, online data privacy, artificial intelligence, space exploration, sports betting, and online poker. His focus on these contemporary issues reflects a commitment to adapting state laws to meet the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements.

In December 2021, Vanel announced his candidacy for the position of New York State Attorney General. However, he later withdrew from the race when Attorney General Letitia James opted to run for re-election instead of pursuing a gubernatorial campaign. Vanel's involvement in various committees, including Banks, Codes, Rules, Science and Technology, Corporations and Authorities, and Racing and Wagering, further demonstrates his engagement with a wide array of legislative matters.

Policy focus and district

Clyde Vanel represents the 33rd district of the New York State Assembly, which includes several neighborhoods in Queens, such as Cambria Heights, St. Albans, Hollis, Queens Village, Bellerose, and parts of Floral Park. This diverse district encompasses a mix of residential communities and commercial areas, reflecting the demographic and economic variety of the borough.

As a legislator, Vanel has prioritized issues that resonate with the needs of his constituents, particularly in the realms of technology and business law. His roles as chair of the Committee on Banks and the Subcommittee on Internet and New Technology position him to address critical matters related to financial services and the digital economy. Vanel's legislative efforts have included initiatives aimed at regulating emerging technologies, ensuring consumer protection in online transactions, and fostering innovation within the state.

Vanel's focus on blockchain technology and cryptocurrency illustrates his commitment to keeping pace with the rapidly evolving technological landscape. By advocating for policies that support these industries, he aims to position New York as a leader in technology and innovation. Additionally, his work on issues such as online data privacy and artificial intelligence reflects a broader concern for the implications of technology on society and the economy.

Through his legislative service, Clyde Vanel continues to engage with the challenges and opportunities facing his district and the state of New York. His background as an attorney and entrepreneur informs his approach to policy-making, as he seeks to balance the interests of businesses with the needs of consumers and the community. As he serves in the New York State Assembly, Vanel remains focused on fostering a legislative environment that encourages growth, innovation, and equitable access to resources for all constituents.