Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Shannon Fredericks always felt destined to end up in politics.
The 29-year-old from Seaford recalled sitting on her grandfather’s lap as a child, reading the New York Times, and learning to circle the important news of the edition.
Now, years later, Fredericks is making her first run for public office, seeking the open seat for State Assembly District 14.
“As someone who is very talkative, very much a people person, this is a good spot for me to be in,” Fredericks, a Republican, told Herald reporters at a roundtable interview.
While it may be her first time running for office, Fredericks has spent years working in the political world. A graduate of the University of Delaware with a degree in international relations, she spent some time fundraising for a think tank called the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.
She went on to attend graduate school at St. John’s University, before landing a job with State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick’s office. Fredericks was later tapped for a larger role with the GOP conference as a Nassau County regional coordinator.
All of her work thus far, Fredericks said, has prepared her to step into the role herself, should she win the election bid in November.
“It’s definitely a benefit that I have spent some time working for the state legislature, even though I was based here,” she said. “I like to be involved, and I like to know what’s going on. I would try, at least once a month, to go up during session.”
Affordability is a top concern she’s hearing from voters, and with that, Fredericks feels she has a unique perspective. Having spent time in Albany, elected officials on both side of the aisle often talk about making New York “great” for their children and grandchildren, she said.
“In a lot of cases, I’m the same age as that child or even grandchild,” she added. “Let my voice be at that table.”
Referencing the state budget increases over the last few years, Fredericks said there needs to be a more sensible approach to spending.
“There are definitely ways that we can evaluate how we’re spending our money before we continue to increase taxes,” she explained.
On public safety, Fredericks was critical of policies like cashless bail, adding that everyone wants “a safe community.”
“I think having policies come out of Albany to allow that to continue is definitely a priority,” she said.
Fredericks also believes she has a strong approach to working across the aisle.
“Everything I do, I try to go with grace, be humble, be kind — because again, we’re all trying to make New York a better place,” she said. “I am the type of person, who, if I’m given a task, I’m going to complete that task. And if I have to work with people across the aisle… let’s get it done.”
She wants voters to embrace the energy and enthusiasm she has while on the campaign trail.
“I will represent all members of the 14th Assembly District,” she said. “I want to hear it all because I can only do my job to the best of my ability if I have that information. I want to be a member of the people and serve the people.”
John Brooks, the Democratic candidate for the 14th Assembly District, did not respond to the Herald’s request for interview.
