Taylor Darling (politician)

Taylor Darling (née Raynor) is an American psychologist and politician who served in the New York State Assembly representing the 18th District from 2019 to 2024. A Democrat, she represents part of Nassau County.

Taylor Darling
Member of the New York State Assembly from the 18th district
In office January 1, 2019 – December 31, 2024
Preceded by	Earlene Hooper
Succeeded by	Noah Burroughs
Personal details
Born	(1983-11-21) November 21, 1983 (age 41) Brooklyn, New York, U.S.
Political party	Democratic
Spouse	Reginald Rene
Children	3
Residence(s)	Hempstead, New York, U.S.
Education	Spelman College Hofstra University
Signature
Website	Legislative website

Early life and education

Darling was born to Raulston and Towana Bertley. Her father was of British, Nigerian, and Trinidadian descent and a convert to Judaism.^[1] She graduated from Spelman College with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and Hofstra University with a Master of Arts in industrial/organizational psychology.^[2]

Political career

Darling challenged incumbent Democratic Assemblymember Earlene Hooper in 2018. During a candidate forum, Hooper compared the race to a plantation and claimed Darling was a tool for White power brokers in the majority Black district.^[3] An anonymous mailer called Darling a "jezebel" and urged voters to "vote against fake Democrat and fake Christian Rayner [Darling]. Jesus sees your vote."^[4] She ultimately defeated Hooper in the Democratic primary with 52% of the vote.^[5]

2024 State Senate campaign

Darling announced her campaign for the 6th district of the New York State Senate in 2024 after incumbent Democrat Kevin Thomas announced his intention to run for the United States House of Representatives.^[6]

Personal life

Darling is married to Reginald Rene and is a non-denominational Christian. She has three children: Lorde-Khai, Ford-Kate, and Monroe-Day.^[1]