Some Korean Americans are running for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. The group, Korean Americans For Harris, launched in mid-September due to the change in candidates, has been active online to rally support. The group recently held a fundraiser in Los Angeles with candidates Andy Kim and Dave Min as well. Gene Kim is the co-chair of the organization.
Why Harris?
“Lifelong Democrats tend to only vote for Democratic candidates, and Republicans tend to vote for their party’s candidates, but this time’s different. Harris is a candidate who respects minorities and diversity like us. I don’t see Trump as representing traditional Republican interests and party members. Harris is the only credible and stable figure in politics today who listens to the people and the experts.”
Some say four years in and nothing has changed.
“Traditionally, the vice president is not the final decision maker and is most importantly an advisor to the president and the Senate. I wouldn’t say she does not have responsibility, but given the circumstances and conditions, I think she has done a good job.”
How do you think the public is grading the Biden administration?
“I don’t think Republicans would give it a bad grade on the economy or social conditions. Even though he decided to drop out of the race, he’s been working on the issues, and he’s done a good job.”
Does Harris’ immigration policy have something to offer Korean Americans?
“Reuniting families and pursuing a new American dream is what the Harris administration believes in and what the Korean American community wants. This is the spirit of America. I doubt Trump, with his closed mind and narrow immigration policies, will get the immigrant community’s vote.”
How has switching from supporting Biden to Harris made a difference?
“Since the candidate change, there has been a new energy across the country, much like there was during the Obama election. I believe Harris will connect with young people with her new policies and approach.”
It’s been a busy year for the Korean American organization working to elect Donald Trump as president. Korean Americans For Trump, which was formed for the 2015 presidential election, has been encouraging Korean Americans to vote in this year’s election, calling for a “Make America great again”. Tae Soo Kim is the co-president of the organization.
How has the organization been working since the 2016 election?
“Since the election, we’ve been exchanging and organizing through Facebook and online meetings. We came together again for this election. Our co-president, Lisa Shin from New Mexico, has also been actively campaigning.”
Why Trump?
“When it comes to borders and the economy, there is no other choice but Trump. When he was in office, there was peace in the world and a stable economy in the United States. I see him as a proven leader. A Democrat in office would make things more difficult for the U.S.”
How do you see the overall support among Korean Americans?
“It seems to be 50/50. I think it’s reflected in the Korea Daily’s poll (a close race within the margin of error). It’s all about which side the non-partisan voters are more likely to vote for.”
Will Trump’s presidency be effective on issues on the Korean Peninsula and diplomacy?
“I expect him to provide leadership that will keep Kim Jong-un and Putin on their toes. The Biden administration’s indecision has led to the current situation. Trump will do a better job of addressing these issues.”
Some voters have a distaste for Trump because of the 2021 incident.
“On a broader level, the two parties have alternated in power, and this is a Republican moment. The protests at the Capitol are a sacred expression of the people, and I don’t think it’s right to call it a riot. It’s a political offensive.”
Where are you watching the vote recount?
“I’m going to the party’s gathering in Newport Beach. I’ll be watching from where the major Republican candidates are gathering.”
BY BRIAN CHOI, HOONSIK WOO [choi.inseong@koreadaily.com]
