James Sanders Jr. facts for kids

Quick facts for kids James Sanders Jr.
Member of the New York State Senate from the 10th district
Incumbent
Assumed office January 1, 2013
Preceded by	Shirley Huntley
Member of the New York City Council from the 31st district
In office January 1, 2002 – January 1, 2013
Preceded by	Juanita Watkins
Succeeded by	Donovan Richards
Personal details
Born	James Sanders Jr. (1957-08-14) August 14, 1957 (age 67) Far Rockaway, New York, U.S.
Political party	Democratic
Spouse	Andrea Stevenson-Sanders
Residence	New York City
Alma mater	Brooklyn College

James Sanders Jr. was born in 1957. He is a politician who serves in the New York State Senate. He has been a State Senator since January 2013. He represents the 10th district in Queens, New York. This area includes neighborhoods like Richmond Hill, South Ozone Park, Jamaica, and Far Rockaway.

Early Life and Education

James Sanders Jr. grew up in Far Rockaway, Queens. He went to public schools in the Rockaways. Later, he attended Brooklyn College. Before becoming a politician, Sanders served in the United States Marine Corps.

Political Career

In 2001, James Sanders Jr. was elected to the New York City Council. He won the election for the 31st district. On the City Council, he made history. He was the first African-American to lead the Economic Development Committee. This committee helps improve the economy of the city.

In 2009, he ran for reelection to the City Council. He won with 40% of the votes. His former District Manager, Donovan Richards, now holds his old council seat.

Supporting Presidents

James Sanders Jr. has supported several presidential candidates. In 2007, he endorsed then-Senator Barack Obama for President. He traveled to different states to help Obama's campaign. He also became a delegate for Obama. This meant he represented his district at the Democratic National Convention.

Later, in 2015, Sanders supported Senator Bernie Sanders for President. He endorsed Bernie Sanders again in 2020.

Serving in the New York State Senate

In 2012, James Sanders Jr. decided to run for the New York State Senate. He won the election and became a State Senator in January 2013. Since then, he has been re-elected several times. He has often run without an opponent in the general election.

When Democrats gained control of the State Senate in 2019, Sanders received an important role. He was named the chairman of the Committee on Banks. This committee deals with laws related to banks and financial services.

In 2019, Senator Sanders introduced a special resolution. This resolution was to recognize October 1 as "China Day" in New York State. This date is also the National Day of the People's Republic of China.

Personal Life

In 2005, James Sanders Jr. married his former chief of staff, Andrea Stevenson-Sanders. He also has two children from a previous marriage.