Jamaal Bailey

Jamaal T. Bailey is an American politician from the state of New York. A Democrat, Bailey has served as a member of the New York State Senate from the 36th district since 2017. He represents the Bronx neighborhoods of Baychester, Co-op City, Wakefield, Williamsbridge, and Woodlawn, along with the Westchester County city of Mount Vernon.

Career Bailey began his political career as an intern to Assemblymember Carl Heastie. He later worked as Heastie's district director and served as district leader in the 83rd Assembly District for six years.

New York State Senate In mid-2016, state Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson resigned from her seat to take a position with New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Bailey ran in the Democratic primary to replace her. He prevailed in a five-way primary contest on September 13, 2016 and defeated Conservative Robert Diamond in the general election on November 8, 2016. Bailey defeated Diamond again in 2018, and went on to win re-election in 2020, 2022, and 2024.

Bailey was named chair of the Senate Insurance Committee in 2025. He previously chaired the Senate Codes Committee.

Personal life Bailey is married. He and his wife, Giamara, reside in Baychester with their son and two daughters.