Nyack Mayor Joe Rand announced Monday that he is running for the Democratic nomination for New York State Senate District 38, which encompasses nearly all of Rockland County. Rand, a longtime business and civic leader, enters the race with a record of problem-solving, fiscal responsibility, and community-focused leadership. His campaign officially launched with the release of a detailed platform and a new website, JoeRand.com, where supporters can learn more and contribute.
Before serving in public office, Rand spent two decades helping build Rand Realty into one of Rockland’s largest employers, supporting over 150 staff members and 1,200 agents. For the past five years, including the last two as Mayor of Nyack, he has led significant improvements across the village. He secured a highly competitive $4.5 million New York Forward grant—the largest investment in Nyack’s history—along with millions more in county, state, and federal funding to strengthen infrastructure, revitalize downtown, support small businesses, and enhance public spaces. Throughout these efforts, he kept the village within the two-percent tax cap while expanding services for residents.
Under Rand’s leadership, Nyack became the first village in New York State to opt into the Good Cause Eviction law. He also launched a sidewalk repair program for homeowners, expanded summer camp opportunities for local families, and strengthened the village’s summer food program to ensure children have access to meals when school is out. Rand says these accomplishments reflect his commitment to solving problems rather than playing politics.
In announcing his run, Rand said he is motivated by the need to address rising costs in utilities, healthcare, and housing; secure the state investment Rockland needs to improve infrastructure and traffic safety; and strengthen services and support for the county’s many nonprofits. He noted that more than 300,000 residents live in the district, and he hopes to bring his energy, experience, and results-driven approach to serve them in Albany. Rand emphasized that he is not an ideologue or partisan warrior, but someone who has consistently worked respectfully and effectively with leaders from both parties across the county.
Several current and former state leaders have endorsed Rand’s candidacy. Former State Senator Elijah Reichlin-Melnick said Rand has “what it takes to win this race” and praised his thoughtful, pragmatic leadership. Assemblymember Pat Carroll said Rand’s commitment to affordability, education, and environmental sustainability represents “the forward-thinking leadership we need in Albany.” Village of Nyack Deputy Mayor Pascale Jean-Gilles also endorsed Rand, citing his “tireless commitment” to affordability, infrastructure, and strengthening community programs.
Rand acknowledged the financial reality of modern political campaigns, noting that the winning candidate in the district’s last Senate race raised over $750,000. He said his own campaign will require even broader support and announced a goal of securing donations from at least 300 people by year’s end. He stressed that even small contributions matter, as they demonstrate the widespread backing his campaign hopes to build.
Joe Rand holds degrees from Georgetown University and a master’s degree from Stanford. He previously worked as a federal judicial clerk, litigation attorney, and law professor. He lives in Nyack with his wife Linie, a nonprofit leader, and their two children.