One-on-One with Queens Conservative Party Chairman Bob Chou

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to sit down with Bob Chou, Chairman of the Queens County Conservative Party. As a newcomer to the leadership role in one of New York City’s most diverse boroughs, Chou brings a unique perspective shaped by his immigrant roots, personal values, and dedication to his community. In our conversation, he shared his journey, goals, and the challenges ahead for the party.

1. Background

Question: Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to this point? 

Chairman Chou: I am Taiwanese by birth; I was born in Taiwan. My mother is also Taiwanese, while my father was born between China and Taiwan, around the time of World War II. As a family, we faced many challenges due to the historical turmoil of that time. I immigrated to the United States legally in 1987 when I was just 14 years old, along with my sister and grandmother. We were not wealthy; my mom worked in a kitchen, and my father did various jobs. I still vividly remember our arrival—standing in a long line at customs. My mom always emphasized the importance of law and order, which shaped my view of America as a country of opportunity.

Follow-up: When did you become a U.S. citizen? 

Chairman Chou: I became a citizen in 1999, a journey that took over 10 years.

2. Political Involvement

Question: What inspired you to get involved in politics in the first place? 

Chairman Chou: My political involvement began when I was about 17 years old. I assisted a local Democrat, a state assembly member who focused on helping the Asian community. As I became older and more engaged, I noticed the political scene did not align with my values, particularly after witnessing the bail reforms that did not serve my community well.

3. Party Ideology

Question: Why did you choose to align yourself with the Conservative Party? 

Chairman Chou: I aligned with the Conservative Party because I resonate with its focus on family values, education, and supporting small businesses. I became increasingly uncomfortable with the Democratic Party’s direction, especially concerning policies that I felt undermined the Asian community’s goals.

4. Short-Term Goals 

Question: What are your key short-term goals for the party heading into the 2025 elections? 

Chairman Chou: Our immediate goals involve boosting voter registration and reconnecting with party members after disruptions from COVID-19. We are committed to re-establishing a presence in the community through regular events. I want the people to know we are back and here to stay.

5. Long-Term Priorities

Question: Looking beyond 2025, what are some long-term priorities for the Queens Conservative Party? 

Chairman Chou: Queens is incredibly diverse, and I plan to leverage that diversity by hosting events that truly engage the community. We want to encourage dialogue on issues affecting residents and provide resources, such as legal advice and media coverage, during our monthly meetings so that our members can receive hands-on help and share their voices. My biggest personal priority, however, is fighting back against bail reform.

6. Assessing Past Elections

Question: In 2024, despite Donald Trump capturing 39% of the vote in Queens, the party failed to win any seats. What do you believe went wrong, and what steps can be taken to turn things around? 

Chairman Chou: The results were disappointing but not surprising. We failed to connect with voters about local issues. Our candidates are passionate and well-intentioned, but we need to engage the community earlier and more effectively to ensure people are informed about the stakes in local elections.

Follow-up: What qualities are you seeking for in future candidates?

Chairman Chou: I would like to point out that our numbers are increasing, though not as quickly as we would like. I believe our recent candidates are regular blue-collar people—cops and others. These are Americans trying to build their American dreams, but the Democratic Party is working year-round for their votes, not just during campaign seasons. They are buying people’s votes year-round with free giveaways.

I spoke to our candidates, and they did not run for the money or the spotlight, but because they hate the way things are going and they truly want to make America great again. Remember the line I had to deal with when coming to this country. Now, we have people coming here just to wait in line for free things. That is not the American Dream. That is not what we are looking for.

7. Candidate Development

Question: How do you plan to recruit and develop strong candidates for the 2025 elections? 

Chairman Chou: I believe in grassroots activism. We will hold small events encouraging those who feel called to run for office. It is about creating opportunities for community members to step up and support one another.

8. Collaboration with the Republican Party

Question: What is your perspective on collaborating with the Republican Party? 

Chairman Chou: I am open to collaboration with the GOP. Our primary goal is to change the current political scenery in our city for the better. While we have not formed many formal relationships yet, I have initiated discussions with local GOP leaders, including Chairman Anthony.

9. Current Political Climate

Question: How would you assess the current political climate in Queens—and beyond? 

Chairman Chou: Many voters in Queens seem confused about the political arena. They see familiar faces but often fail to realize that those elected officials have not delivered meaningful change. It is vital that we engage and educate voters on the effects of their choices. I want them to understand that they can vote for someone else that could really help the community and still receive their benefits.

10. Political Ideology

Question: I recently heard you passionately challenge a socialist panelist. Given your strong stance, would you ever consider voting for a socialist candidate? 

Chairman Chou: Hell no. I believe socialism undermines the very principles of freedom and opportunity that we value.

Chairman Bob Chou’s story highlights the values that guide him as he leads the Queens Conservative Party. Chou seems determined to bring a fresh approach to Queens politics.

While many challenges lie ahead, his commitment to family values, education, and connecting with the diverse Queens community sets a clear direction for his party’s future. It will be interesting to see how his leadership shapes the borough’s political landscape in the years to come.

Chairman Chou has invited any individuals in Queens interested in joining the Conservative Party to contact him at [email protected] or by phone at (929) 318-7782.