Khaleel Anderson (31)

Khaleel M. Anderson represents Assembly District 31 in Queens and is affiliated with the Democratic Party and Working Families Party. Born on June 11, 1996, in Brooklyn, Anderson was raised in the Rockaways and currently lives in Far Rockaway. He made history as the youngest Black Assembly Member in New York State history when elected in November 2020 at age 24, also becoming the youngest member of the state Legislature in 20 years.

Anderson began his career as a community organizer at age 13 and has been dedicated to leadership, service, and advocacy throughout his life. He served as the youngest member of Queens Community Board 14 and his local Police Precinct Council during his tenure. Prior to his election, he worked to build a half-acre urban farm that provides fresh produce, workshops on healthy eating, and employment opportunities for young people.

Education

Anderson graduated from Queens College with a Bachelor of Arts degree and pursued graduate studies in Urban Affairs with a minor in Cities and Social Medicine. He is a 2021 Lindsay Fellow in Government Leadership and Practice.

Political Experience

Anderson won a competitive Democratic primary in July 2020, defeating five other candidates including the Queens Democratic Committee's preferred candidate. His election campaign was supported by the Working Families Party and progressive organizations.

As Assembly Member, Anderson represents parts of Arverne, Brookville, Far Rockaway, Hammels, Rosedale, South Ozone Park, South Richmond Hill, Springfield Gardens, and John F. Kennedy International Airport. His priorities include housing and healthcare justice, criminal justice reform, educational equity, transportation equity, and environmental justice. His office has resolved hundreds of constituent concerns, trained community members in mental health first aid, and led COVID-19 vaccination efforts in his district. He serves on the Assembly Committee on Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislative Caucus and is a leading voice on issues of food insecurity, disaster preparedness, housing, transportation, and healthcare planning.