Khaleel Anderson, 23-year old, was born in New York City Brooklyn to parents that emigrated from Liberia during the Liberia’s civil war. Raised in Queens to a growing family of five, Khaleel lived in a household where his father was a member of the powerful healthcare workers union 1199 SEIU and his mother, a community organizer for ACORN (now defunct) active during the years 1996-2005. When his dad left home, the financial strain of living in a single parent home could be felt by all. In 2005 his family moved to Far Rockaway because rent prices became unaffordable. As a teenager, Khaleel struggled with mental health and behavioral problems. He was able to change his life around when he found his passion in community organizing.
On June 23, 2020, in a crowded Democratic Primary race for State Assembly District 31 Queens, Khaleel won with approximately 2,469 votes (38% of the votes counted). Khaleel is projected to with the general election come November 3, 2020. District 31 Queens which include Far Rockaway, South Ozone Park and South Richmond Hill, is predominantly Democratic Party district. Khaleel is likely will be one of the youngest Assemblyman in the New York State Assembly.
