Tony Simone is a Democratic member of the New York State Assembly representing the 75th District, which includes Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, Midtown Manhattan, and parts of the Lincoln Center area. Born in February 1970, he is the first openly gay assembly member to represent this district. Elected in November 2022 after winning the Democratic primary with 37.9% of the vote and defeating Republican Joseph Maffia by nearly 70%, he assumed office on January 1, 2023. He lives in Hell’s Kitchen with his husband, Jason, and their rescue dog, Radar. Simone is a member of the Vote Blue Coalition and focuses on issues like public safety, mental health, affordable housing, healthcare access, climate change, tenant and immigrant rights, equity for disabled people, and LGBTQ+ rights.

Education and Political Experience

Simone holds an MPA from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs. His career began working for the late State Senator Catherine Abate, Councilmember Christine Quinn, and NYS Comptroller Carl McCall. He served as Deputy Director of the Northeast Regional Office of People for the American Way, leading policy and field operations for immigrant and LGBT rights. Later, as Director of Community Outreach for NYC Council Speaker Christine Quinn, he directed Superstorm Sandy relief efforts, reduced hate crimes, advocated for NYS marriage equality, and protected tenants. Most recently, he was Director of External Affairs at Hudson River Park Friends, raising funds for park maintenance and accessibility. A longtime "political junkie," he volunteered on campaigns including Clinton-Gore, Hillary Clinton’s NY Senate run, and various local races.