Democrat Phil Wong is set to represent Queens’ District 30 on the New York City Council after defeating Republican Alicia Vaichunas by roughly 10 percentage points, according to unofficial results from the city’s Board of Elections. The district includes neighborhoods such as Ridgewood and Middle Village.
Wong, who has served as Council Member Robert Holden’s budget and constituent services director, succeeded his longtime boss in a closely watched race between two of Holden’s own staff members. Vaichunas, his deputy chief of staff, had worked in the office for eight years.
Throughout his campaign, Wong focused on local issues and community engagement. He often met voters at transit hubs, including train and bus stops, to hear their concerns firsthand. “Those are places where I could hear out what they want,” he explained. Wong’s campaign, supported by nearly 600 donors, credited its win to door-to-door outreach that covered nearly the entire district.
The Asian Wave Alliance praised Wong’s victory as a win for representation and advocacy. “We are very proud of Phil Wong and excited that he will not only represent District 30 constituents but also Asian New Yorkers citywide,” said Yiatin Chu, the group’s president.
Vaichunas, meanwhile, delivered a tense and emotional concession speech, voicing frustration toward Holden. “I had somebody’s back for eight years who put knives in my back,” she said, later confirming she intends to leave public service.
Holden, who endorsed Wong during the Democratic primary, expressed sympathy following the loss. “I know she’s hurting now, and I know it’s devastating for her,” he said.
Wong will assume office in January, pledging to continue serving the community and building on Holden’s work.
