One-on-One with Brooklyn Conservative Party Chairwoman Fran Vella-Marrone

In a candid conversation, Fran Vella-Marrone, Chairwoman of the Brooklyn Conservative Party, shared her journey into politics, her strategies for navigating New York City’s conservative political landscape, and her vision for Brooklyn’s future. Her story reflects the heart of advocacy, leadership, and the best qualities of the Conservative Party, which have defined her impactful tenure.

1. Background and Political Journey

Question: Can you share a bit about your personal and professional journey that led you into politics?

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone: I’ve been interested in politics ever since I was a teenager. My interest sparked in high school, and I got involved in my first campaign at 17 years old. From that point on, I’ve been politically active. It all started with my involvement in a congressional campaign, where I met members of the Conservative Party. The candidate, a registered Conservative, was running with the Republican endorsement. Although he lost in a close race, that experience drew me into the Conservative Party. By 19, I was a district leader. Over the years, I’ve progressed in various roles—county treasurer, vice chair, and eventually county chair when Jerry Kassar stepped down. Beyond my political career, I’ve worked for elected officials and state agencies and have spent time in the private sector, so I’ve seen both sides of government and business.

2. The Future of the Conservative Party in Brooklyn

Question: How do you see the Conservative Party’s role evolving in Brooklyn? How can it remain relevant in a city that is becoming increasingly progressive?

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone: New York City is blue, but we’re seeing pockets of strong Conservative support. These areas are growing, especially among immigrant communities who resonate with our focus on safety, affordability, and education. Voter turnout and party enrollment are increasing every year, and we’re seeing more support from immigrant families. While we don’t expect Brooklyn to become a conservative stronghold overnight, we’re seeing attitudes shift. Our goal is to continue building on this momentum, winning more seats, and ensuring that the voices of Brooklyn’s diverse communities are heard.

3. Key Goals as Chairwoman

Question: What are the key goals for your tenure as Chairwoman, and what do you hope to accomplish?

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone: Right now, we have more elected officials in Brooklyn than we’ve ever had, and I’m incredibly proud of that. We’ve built substantial influence, not just in Brooklyn but across the city, state, and even nationally. My goal is to continue growing our influence by winning more seats. For example, this year we picked up a State Senate seat in the 17th District, which has a significant Asian population. We’ve also seen strong support from Russian, Jewish, and other immigrant communities who align with our focus on safety, affordability, and quality education. A significant win this year was breaking the Democrats’ supermajority in the State Senate. This shift means we now have more power to influence legislation and block policies we disagree with. Moving forward, we want to keep expanding our influence, electing quality candidates who reflect our values.

4. Legacy and Future Vision

Question: Looking ahead, what do you envision as your legacy, both within the party and in Brooklyn at large?

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone: I hope my legacy reflects the successful election of Conservative-endorsed officials across Brooklyn. Southern Brooklyn is already filled with these officials, and I’m proud of that. I aim to expand this success, ensuring even more areas embrace Conservative values. Beyond electing officials, I want to influence policy at the city, state, and federal levels. We’re focused on creating safer communities, making neighborhoods more affordable, and preserving the unique character of our borough. Outside of politics, I’ve always been passionate about civic engagement. For over 30 years, I served as president of the Dyker Heights Civic Association, one of the longest-serving presidents in the area. I continue to be active in my community because I believe civic involvement is essential—not just political involvement.

5. Addressing Brooklyn’s Challenges

Question: As Chairwoman, what would you say are the most pressing issues facing Brooklyn today, and what strategies do you have to address them?

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone: Brooklyn faces many challenges, many of which are shared with the rest of the city and state. The economy is number one. It’s increasingly difficult for people to make ends meet, whether it’s affording housing or managing basic living costs. Affordability is a major issue. Public safety is also a top concern, as is education. While these issues affect all of New York City, Brooklyn has unique challenges. One issue I’m particularly focused on is zoning. The “City of Yes” initiative proposed by the City Council could have sweeping effects, but it doesn’t account for the unique characteristics of Brooklyn’s neighborhoods. Each neighborhood has its own character—low-rise, high-rise, or denser areas—and people choose to live in these communities because of these distinctions. I believe zoning changes should respect these individual characteristics and not compromise the fabric of our neighborhoods.

6. Growth and Future of the Party

Question: With the Brooklyn Conservative Party having the highest number of elected officials in its history, what does this signal for the future?

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone: The Conservative Party in Brooklyn is on an upswing, and we intend to build on this momentum. We’ve seen real progress—picking up seats and gaining the attention of potential candidates seeking our endorsement. The future looks bright, not just in Brooklyn but across the city, state, and federal levels. Our goal is to elect people who share our values and push forward the policies we believe in.

7. Collaboration with the Brooklyn Republican Party

Question: How have you navigated working with the Brooklyn Republican Party, and where do you see potential for collaboration?

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone: I have a strong working relationship with the Brooklyn Republican Party. We coordinate efforts on key races, identify candidates, and align on campaign strategies. While we may differ occasionally on candidate choices, we generally work closely together. This collaboration has been vital in our successes, and it will continue to be crucial as we move forward. Together, we are strengthening the Conservative presence in Brooklyn and advancing our shared values.

8. Supporting Single Mothers in Politics

Question: How can the Conservative Party better support single mothers, especially those interested in running for office?

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone: Single mothers face many of the same concerns as other residents—public safety, affordability, and education. Our goal is to continue advancing policies that address these issues. For those interested in running for office, we actively guide and mentor them through the process. While I’m not a single mother myself, I understand the importance of creating opportunities for women in politics. For example, I was the first woman elected as chair in Brooklyn for any party. We’re committed to supporting women and single mothers who want to serve the public and represent their communities.

9. Public Safety and Law Enforcement

Question: With rising concerns about crime, how do you propose improving safety while respecting civil liberties?

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone: Public safety starts with supporting law enforcement. Recent legislation has hindered police officers’ ability to do their jobs effectively, and that needs to change. We need to ensure law enforcement is properly funded and equipped to perform community policing. Many communities, particularly lower-income ones, want safer streets. Increasing police presence and fostering cooperation between police and local organizations can make a real difference. As a longtime member of my local precinct’s community council, I’ve seen how collaboration improves both trust and safety. It’s not just about enforcement; it’s about building relationships and working together.

10. Infrastructure Improvement

Question: What do you believe needs to be done to improve Brooklyn’s infrastructure, particularly in terms of public transportation?

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone: Public transportation has long been neglected by the MTA, and it needs modernization. We’ve seen inadequate management and a failure to address long-standing issues like the outdated signal system. I don’t believe more funding is needed, but it does need to be used more effectively. I’m also opposed to congestion pricing, which essentially taxes drivers who often have no choice but to drive into the city. This policy shifts the problem rather than solving it, exacerbating pollution in lower-income neighborhoods like parts of Brooklyn and the Bronx. The focus should be on making meaningful improvements, increasing transparency, and holding the MTA accountable.

11. Cross-Party Endorsements

Question: Could the Conservative Party ever secure all three major political lines for a single candidate in Brooklyn?

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone: While it hasn’t happened recently, it’s certainly possible. We’ve seen scenarios in the past where registered conservative candidates earned support across party lines. If the right candidate garnered broad enough support, securing all three lines could happen in the future.

12. A Fun Note on Sports

Question: You mentioned you’re a Mets fan. What do you think of my Yankees sweater?

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone: Well, as a Mets fan, I have to say I’m disappointed! Yankees are a no-go! I’m a Mets fan through and through. Sorry to say, but Mets fans don’t like the Yankees.

Follow-up Comment: Candidates, be prepared to approach this topic carefully, but remember, it’s all in good fun.

Chairwoman Vella-Marrone’s leadership continues to shape the Brooklyn Conservative Party and strengthen the broader Conservative movement. By focusing on policy, collaborating with candidates and legislators, and fostering connections within diverse communities, she advances initiatives that honor Brooklyn’s unique character. Her unwavering dedication to civic engagement and strategic vision promises to expand her mission of creating a thriving and united future for Brooklyn.