Campaign Volunteer Arrested After Confrontation in Brooklyn
A volunteer for Steve Chan faces an assault charge following an altercation with a rival campaign in Bensonhurst.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Elections
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Police arrested 73-year-old Liu Zhen on Tuesday after she allegedly struck a campaign volunteer for state senate candidate Larry He. The incident occurred in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, where the two campaign tables were situated 50 feet apart.
Why it matters
The arrest highlights escalating tensions between opposing political campaigns as election day approaches. Candidate Steve Chan has since suspended the volunteer from his campaign team.
Liu Zhen, 73, was issued a desk appearance ticket and released following the incident. She was charged with assault in the third degree after allegedly hitting a volunteer from the rival campaign.
The players
Liu Zhen
She is a 73-year-old campaign volunteer who was arrested and charged with third-degree assault.
Steve Chan
He is a candidate who suspended the volunteer from his campaign following the incident.
Larry He
He is a state senate candidate whose volunteer was allegedly struck during the altercation.
The details
The confrontation unfolded when Liu Zhen approached the rival campaign table from her own station, which was located 50 feet away. She reportedly reached over the table and swiped at a campaign volunteer for Larry He before the arrest occurred.
Timeline
Tuesday, October 27, 2026: Liu Zhen allegedly hit a campaign worker and was arrested.
Political Context
The incident mirrors broader concerns regarding political volatility during competitive local elections in New York City. Opposition representatives argue such behavior undermines the integrity of public discourse and candidate safety.
Residents in the Bensonhurst area may see an increased presence of campaign staff and security as candidates adjust their field operations. This incident serves as a reminder of the heightened activity around local polling sites and campaign tables.
The takeaway
Maintaining physical boundaries between opposing political groups remains a key challenge for campaign organizers in high-traffic urban areas. Voters are encouraged to prioritize civil dialogue when engaging with campaign staff at public tables.
Further reading
Follow the latest updates on local races on the New York City Elections page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by New York Post.
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