Biography of Senator Sam Sutton

Solomon "Sam" Sutton is a Democrat representing New York State Senate District 22, which encompasses South Brooklyn neighborhoods including Midwood, Flatbush, Borough Park, Marine Park, Gerritsen Beach, and Sheepshead Bay.

Born on August 14, 1949, Sutton is a Brooklyn native and a nonprofit executive and community activist with deep roots in the Sephardic Jewish community. He made history as the first Sephardic Jew elected to the New York State Senate. Sutton won a special election on May 20, 2025, defeating Republican candidate Nachman Caller to fill the seat vacated by Simcha Felder's move to the New York City Council. He was sworn in on May 27, 2025.

Education and Professional Experience

Sutton brings extensive nonprofit leadership experience spanning multiple decades. He served 30 years with Sephardic Bikur Holim, a social service organization, and has worked for the Sephardic Community Federation, New York Cancer Center, and the Safe Foundation. Additionally, he served as a former trustee of the CUNY Board of Trustees and NYU Langone Medical Center.

Political Experience and Notable Positions

In the State Senate, Sutton holds several significant roles. He serves as chair of the Administrative Regulations Review Commission and is a member of committees focused on Aging, Disabilities, Education, Health, New York City Education, and Social Services.

Beyond his legislative work, Sutton is a co-founder and board chair of Teach NYS, an advocacy organization that promotes funding for nonpublic schools, including yeshivas and Jewish day schools. His political platform emphasizes community advocacy and policy development to address the diverse needs of his constituents.