Sam Sutton Sworn In as NY State Senator Representing Brooklyn’s 22nd District in Emotionally Charged Ceremony

By: Fern Sidman

In a ceremony rich with heritage, symbolism, and community pride, Sam Sutton was officially sworn in on Tuesday as the New York State Senator representing Brooklyn’s 22nd Senate District, succeeding Simcha Felder, who recently transitioned to the New York City Council. As VIN News reported, Sutton’s inauguration marked not only the start of a new political chapter for the district—which includes Midwood, Flatbush, Borough Park, Marine Park, Gerritsen Beach, and Sheepshead Bay—but also a heartfelt moment of personal and communal significance.

The swearing-in ceremony, held in the Senate Chamber of the New York State Capitol in Albany, was attended by Sutton’s family, friends, longtime community advocates, and numerous elected officials. According to the information provided in the VIN News report, the event was particularly emotional as Sutton’s oath of office was administered by his son-in-law, Rabbi Joseph Beyda, creating an intimate bridge between public duty and personal legacy.

Adding to the profound resonance of the occasion, Sutton placed his hand on a rare copy of the Keter Aram Soba, a sacred Bible with centuries of historical and religious importance, originally safeguarded by the Jewish community of Aleppo, Syria. The ancient text was loaned to Sutton for the ceremony by Congregation Shaare Zion of Brooklyn, a synagogue where he has been a lifelong member and active participant. As reported by VIN News, Sutton described the use of the Bible as “a tribute to my heritage and a symbol of the values I carry with me to Albany.”

“I am honored and humbled to serve the 22nd District,” Sutton declared during the ceremony, as quoted by VIN News. “I look forward to working hard every day to earn the trust of my constituents, to listen to their concerns, and to fight for their priorities in the State Senate.”

Sutton’s election on May 20, in a special election called to fill the seat vacated by Felder, was seen as a continuation of the district’s deep-rooted connection to civic engagement and Orthodox Jewish representation. The 22nd District is one of the most culturally diverse and religiously observant districts in New York, and Sutton’s background as a nonprofit leader and community coalition-builder has made him a well-known and respected figure throughout South Brooklyn.

His swearing-in was met with warm praise from state leadership, including Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, who noted Sutton’s longstanding dedication to public service.

“Sam has long shown his commitment to community service and to the people of South Brooklyn,” Stewart-Cousins said, as reported by VIN News. “His experience as a nonprofit leader and coalition-builder will be a great asset to our Democratic Majority as we continue working to build a more equitable New York.”

Sutton’s public service resume is extensive. Prior to entering the political arena, he held senior positions in various nonprofit organizations focused on education, social services, and interfaith cooperation. His ability to navigate the complex landscape of New York politics while maintaining close ties to grassroots concerns is a hallmark of his leadership style.

As detailed in the VIN News report, Sutton’s involvement in Brooklyn’s Jewish community spans decades and is grounded in a deep reverence for tradition. His connection to Congregation Shaare Zion and his decision to swear in on the Keter Aram Soba not only draw attention to his Syrian-Jewish roots but also signal a broader commitment to Jewish continuity, cultural preservation, and public integrity.

Observers see Sutton as uniquely positioned to bridge divides between the diverse communities in the 22nd District. His agenda reportedly includes increased funding for education, stronger community safety measures, and economic revitalization for underserved neighborhoods, goals that reflect both his local knowledge and broader legislative vision.

Sutton takes office at a time of heightened political polarization and social strain, but also during a period of renewed civic energy across New York. The report at VIN News indicated that Sutton has pledged to be a listening legislator, someone who prioritizes accessibility and transparency. “Our district is diverse, vibrant, and full of passionate voices,” he said. “My job is to amplify those voices in Albany.”

He enters a Senate where issues such as public safety, housing affordability, and state education policy are expected to dominate the legislative agenda. Given his experience and community trust, many believe Sutton will play a key role in shaping policy that reflects the needs of South Brooklyn’s unique population.

Sam Sutton’s swearing-in is more than a procedural step in Albany—it’s a meaningful milestone for a community that values its history as much as its future. By merging personal legacy with public service, Sutton has set a tone of humility, reverence, and dedication.

With a sacred Aleppan Bible in hand, family at his side, and the weight of an ancient promise to defend his people and represent their interests, Senator Sam Sutton steps into office not just as a lawmaker, but as a symbol of what principled leadership in New York can look like.