Steve Israel, born on May 30, 1958, is 67 years old in 2025. A former U.S. Congressman, political commentator, author, and bookseller, Israel’s multifaceted career spans politics, media, and literature. His net worth is estimated between -$409,500 to $1 million, reflecting financial challenges during his congressional tenure. Married to Marlene Budd Israel since 2003, he balances a private family life with public endeavors. This article delves into Israel’s age, career, net worth, salary, married life, and dating history, offering fresh insights and updates for 2025.
Early Life and Age: Steve Israel’s Beginnings
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Steve Israel (age 67 in 2025) grew up with a passion for public service. Raised in a middle-class family, he developed an early interest in politics, shaped by the vibrant political landscape of New York. His education at George Washington University (BA, 1980) laid the groundwork for a career rooted in policy and governance. Israel’s age has brought wisdom, evident in his transition from politics to creative and intellectual pursuits, including running Theodore’s Books in Oyster Bay.
Insight: Israel’s age aligns him with a generation of politicians navigating the shift from traditional to digital media, a perspective that informs his commentary on platforms like MSNBC and CNN.
Political Career: A Legacy of Leadership
Israel’s career began on the Huntington Town Board in 1993, leading to his election as a U.S. Representative for New York’s 2nd and 3rd districts from 2001 to 2017. As a Democrat, he chaired the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) from 2011 to 2015, shaping national campaign strategies. His tenure included advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, notably supporting marriage equality before New York’s 2011 legalization. After retiring in 2017, Israel joined CNN as a commentator and now directs the Cornell University Institute of Politics and Global Affairs.
Case Study: Israel’s leadership in the DCCC during the 2012 elections helped Democrats gain eight House seats, showcasing his strategic acumen in swing districts.
Net Worth and Salary: Financial Insights
Steve Israel’s net worth in 2025 is estimated between -$409,500 (2017 data) and $1 million (speculative estimates). His congressional salary was approximately $174,000 annually, with staff budgets around $1,034,799 in 2011. Post-Congress, his income stems from political commentary, book sales, and Theodore’s Books. Financial disclosures indicate investments in real estate and modest assets, but earlier negative net worth suggests debt or financial strain during his tenure.
Original Research: Unlike many former congressmen, Israel’s modest net worth reflects a focus on public service over personal wealth accumulation. His bookstore venture, while passion-driven, likely yields limited profits, aligning with his community-focused ethos.
For more financial details, visit OpenSecrets.
Married Life and Dating: Personal Insights
Married to Marlene Budd Israel since 2003, Steve Israel maintains a private personal life. Little is known about his dating history prior to marriage, as he kept romantic details out of the public eye. His commitment to marriage equality, expressed in a 2009 press release, underscores his progressive values, which likely influence his personal relationships. Israel’s marriage appears stable, with no public records of separation or divorce.
Quote: “I’m proud of what states have done for marriage equality,” Israel said in 2009, reflecting his advocacy for inclusive relationships.
Follow Israel’s updates on X @RepSteveIsrael.
Post-Congress Ventures: Books, Media, and More
Since leaving Congress, Israel has embraced diverse roles. He opened Theodore’s Books, fulfilling a lifelong dream, and published satirical novels like The Global War on Morris (2014) and Big Guns (2018). His work with Cornell University fosters bipartisan dialogue, while his commentary on MSNBC and SiriusXM addresses issues like social media’s impact, as seen in his 2022 role with the Council for Responsible Social Media.
Unique Angle: Israel’s bookstore venture reflects a trend among former politicians seeking community engagement over corporate lobbying, offering a model for post-political careers.
2025 Updates: Advocacy and Controversies
In February 2025, Israel stirred debate by supporting a hypothetical push for Canada to become the 51st state, arguing it could bolster Democratic voter bases. This stance, while controversial, highlights his willingness to engage in bold political discourse. His ongoing work at Cornell emphasizes civic engagement, positioning him as a thought leader in polarized times.
Real-World Example: Israel’s advocacy for responsible social media aligns with growing public concern, with 70% of Americans believing platforms harm mental health (Pew Research, 2024).
Learn more about his career on Wikipedia.
Biography Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steven Jay Israel |
| Age | 67 (Born May 30, 1958) |
| Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York |
| Education | George Washington University (BA, 1980) |
| Political Career | U.S. Representative (2001–2017), Huntington Town Board (1993–2001) |
| Key Roles | DCCC Chairman (2011–2015), Democratic Policy Committee (2015–2017) |
| Net Worth | Estimated -$409,500 to $1 million (2025) |
| Salary | $174,000 (Congress), plus commentary and bookshop income |
| Married | Marlene Budd Israel (m. 2003) |
| Children | No public information available |
| Current Roles | Political commentator, bookseller, Cornell Institute Director |
| Notable Works | The Global War on Morris (2014), Big Guns (2018) |
| Advocacy | LGBTQ+ rights, marriage equality, responsible social media |
| Social Media | X @RepSteveIsrael |
Why Steve Israel Stands Out in 2025
Israel’s journey from Congress to commentator and bookseller showcases a rare blend of public service and creative expression. His age brings seasoned perspective, while his net worth reflects modest gains compared to peers. His married life remains a private anchor, and his career continues to evolve, making him a unique figure in American politics.
Insight: Israel’s focus on bipartisan dialogue at Cornell offers a counterpoint to today’s polarized climate, appealing to voters seeking unity. His bookstore, a haven for literary enthusiasts, symbolizes a return to community roots.
For further reading, explore Long Island University and Cornell University.
