Korean-American community leaders are expressing concerns as notable Korean-American politicians publicly endorse candidates of other ethnicities over Korean-American contenders in next year’s primary elections. These partisan endorsements could potentially undermine the political empowerment of the Korean-American community, a minority group.
For instance, in California’s 37th Senate District race, Republican Steven Choi is contending against Democrat Josh Newman, a current State Senator representing District 29. Dave Min, the Democrat incumbent for the 37th District, has already endorsed Newman. Given the district’s Democratic majority and liberal inclination, Choi faces a significant challenge. “While I understand the importance of partisan logic and party leadership requests,” Choi commented, “it would be disheartening to see Korean-American politicians endorse candidates of other ethnicities over their own.”
It is not unusual for party officials to encourage Korean-American politicians within their ranks to deliver critical speeches or messages aimed at discrediting Korean-American candidates from the opposing party.
A similar situation is unfolding in the congressional elections next year. Representative Young Kim, seeking her third term, is running in the 40th Congressional District against Democrats Allyson Damikolas and Joe Kerr. Dave Min has endorsed both Democratic candidates. A spokesperson from Min’s campaign clarified, “The endorsements reflect the party leadership’s stance, not a personal opposition to Representative Kim. It’s about how the party’s and the candidate’s policies will be evaluated by voters.”
In contrast, Republican Scott Baugh, vying for Min’s 47th Congressional District seat, received an endorsement from Representative Michelle Park Steel (R-45). However, in Steel’s 45th District, where four Democrats or Democratic-leaning challengers are competing next year, no Korean-American politicians have announced their endorsements yet.
David Kim, a third-time contender in the 34th District, faces Jimmy Gomez, who has garnered endorsements from incumbent Korean-American politicians, including Andy Kim (New Jersey) and Marilyn Strickland (Washington). David Kim shared his feelings: “Andy Kim once sent me a message requesting understanding, and while I comprehend his position, it’s also disappointing.”
Campaign officials for Korean-American candidates noted, “Realistically, there’s no internal resolution for Korean Americans on this matter.” They added, “However, an unwritten rule persists: avoiding active speeches or messages against Korean-American candidates from other parties.”
Reflecting on the changing political landscape, a former campaign aide mentioned, “A decade ago, we didn’t openly support candidates from the opposing party as we do now. This shift is likely due to the current polarized politics and the proximity to the presidential election.”
BY BRIAN CHOI [ichoi@koreadaily.com]
