Looking ahead to the 2024 general election to choose the leaders of our communities, the Korea Daily is announcing endorsements and weighing in on the candidates and propositions.
Since 2020, the Korea Daily has been endorsing candidates from all walks of life through the Candidate Evaluation Committee to ensure that politicians make and follow through on good promises and that ultimately, the votes of Korean American voters will make a difference.
From the candidates who made it through the primary, the Korea Daily selected candidates who have produced meaningful policies and contributed to the Korean American community.
Despite the endorsements, the Korea Daily will continue to provide unbiased coverage.
5. David Kim, California’s 34th Congressional District
The Korea Daily officially endorses David Kim, candidate for California’s 34th Congressional District, which includes Koreatown in Los Angeles.
The 34th District, encompassing areas such as Glendale and Pasadena to the north of downtown LA and Montebello to the west, is home to a diverse population of minority residents and is characterized by low-income communities.
David Kim, a public defender representing immigrant families in court, is a progressive figure in LA politics. He aims to significantly expand support for low-income immigrants, a group previously elected officials have failed to adequately assist.
Running for the third time, Kim has consistently championed key issues such as creating a safe, life-respecting environment, promoting collaborative governance between various government agencies, and advocating for policies that prioritize the working class over corporations. His campaign promises include ensuring a minimum income for individuals over 18, gradual forgiveness of federal student loans, and substantial reductions in prescription drug costs—proposals that directly address the needs of his district’s low-income residents.
Kim, who grew up in a Korean pastor’s family, first shocked the political scene in 2020 by earning 47% of the vote. In 2022, he narrowly missed victory, falling short by just 3,021 votes to claim second place.
As he faces the incumbent for a third time, Kim urges voters to participate if they believe change is needed. His potential win is seen as a pathway for the Korean American community to fulfill their longstanding goal of having a representative in Congress from Koreatown.
For more information on his campaign and initiatives, visit his website at davidkimforca.com.
[Candidate Evaluation Committee]
