Daphne Jordan

Daphne Jordan is a former American politician and attorney who served as a member of the New York State Senate, representing the 43rd Senate District from 2019 until 2022. A member of the Republican Party, Jordan's legislative career was marked by her advocacy on various issues, including public safety, fiscal policy, and community recognition initiatives. Prior to her tenure in the State Senate, she held several local government positions, demonstrating a commitment to public service at the municipal level.

Early life and career

Daphne Veras Jordan was born on November 28, 1959, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She has Greek heritage, with paternal ancestors originating from the islands of Mytilene and Evia, and maternal ancestors from the regions of Skoura and Kastania. This diverse cultural background has contributed to her perspective and approach to public service.

Jordan pursued higher education at Lehigh University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government and English in 1981. She continued her studies at Penn State Dickinson Law, obtaining her Juris Doctor in 1984. Her educational background laid a foundation for her future career in law and politics.

In the early stages of her professional life, Jordan engaged in local governance. She served on the Halfmoon Planning Board and the Halfmoon Zoning Board of Appeals, where she gained valuable experience in community planning and development. In 2014, she was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Halfmoon Town Board, and she subsequently won a full term in the 2015 election. During her time on the Town Board, she also held positions as a Trustee, Member of the Executive Committee, and Treasurer for the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library. Additionally, Jordan worked as a legislative director for her predecessor in the State Senate, Kathy Marchione, further enhancing her understanding of state-level legislative processes.

Legislative service

Daphne Jordan's entry into the New York State Senate came after a competitive election in 2018. Following the announcement by Senator Kathy Marchione that she would not seek reelection, Jordan declared her candidacy for the 43rd Senate District. Her campaign focused on several key issues, including her pro-life stance and support for Second Amendment rights. Jordan positioned herself as a counterbalance to the policies of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the Democratic leadership in New York City. She successfully won the election against Democratic candidate Aaron Gladd.

Jordan was re-elected to the State Senate in 2020, defeating Democratic challenger Patrick Nelson. Her tenure in the Senate was marked by her involvement in various legislative debates and votes. Notably, she opposed the Reproductive Health Act, which aimed to codify abortion rights in New York. Jordan expressed her belief that strengthening abortion rights contributed to a culture that undervalues life.

In 2019, she also opposed a proposal to grant driver licenses to undocumented immigrants, arguing that it could compromise public safety and lead to issues such as identity theft and voter fraud. Throughout her time in office, Jordan introduced legislation aimed at addressing various issues, including a proposal to study the costs associated with separating New York City from the rest of the state.

In 2022, following redistricting, Jordan faced a challenge from fellow Republican Jim Tedisco, who announced his intention to run in the newly redrawn 44th Senate District. This development led to controversy, and on June 14, 2022, Jordan announced that she would not seek re-election. She expressed her desire to avoid what she described as a "circus atmosphere" in the campaign.

Policy focus and district

During her time in the New York State Senate, Jordan represented a diverse district that included Columbia County and parts of Rensselaer, Saratoga, and Washington counties. Her policy focus encompassed a range of issues that resonated with her constituents. She was known for her opposition to tax credits for the film industry and the state's public funding system for political campaigns. Additionally, she advocated for the repeal of the state's bail reform laws and called for an independent investigation into COVID-19-related nursing home deaths.

Jordan's commitment to her community was evident through her efforts to honor local heroes. In 2019, she initiated a campaign to establish Purple Heart Communities across the 43rd Senate District, recognizing the sacrifices of Purple Heart recipients. This initiative led to all 60 towns, villages, and cities within the district being designated as Purple Heart Communities, with local resolutions passed in all four counties.

In recognition of her contributions, the American Red Cross named Jordan a Legislator of the Year in March 2022. She also introduced bipartisan legislation to honor philanthropist Marylou Whitney by designating a portion of the state highway system in Saratoga Springs as "Marylou Whitney Way." This legislation was signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul, reflecting Jordan's ability to work across party lines for community recognition.

Throughout her legislative career, Jordan maintained a focus on issues that she believed were critical to the safety and well-being of her constituents. Her positions on various matters, including public safety, fiscal responsibility, and community honors, defined her time in the New York State Senate. After concluding her service, Jordan's legacy in the legislature is marked by her active engagement in local issues and her commitment to representing the interests of her district.

Jordan is married to Phil Jordan, and during her time in the Senate, she resided in Halfmoon, New York, with her family, which includes two sons. Her personal and professional experiences have shaped her approach to governance and public service, leaving a distinct mark on the communities she served.