“I will focus on the people of the district and, if necessary, speak independently of party affiliation,” said Dave Min, who won a narrow victory in California’s 47th Congressional District. “What is more important than the party is the people.”
Representative Min is scheduled to return to California on November 21 after completing his orientation as a first-term member of Congress in Washington, D.C. The Korea Daily spoke with Min, who won a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives straight after serving in the California State Senate, about his aspirations and plans.
-How do you feel about your victory?
“It’s an honor. I will work for the voters and the Korean-American community. I would like to thank the Korean Americans who have provided me with great support during the election. I look forward to working with my senior colleagues, Reps. Young Kim and Marilyn Strickland. I will do my best to further promote the diplomatic relations between the United States and South Korea, which will continue for another 70 years. At the same time, I hope to serve as a representative of Korean Americans.”
-What do you think winning the voters’ choice means?
“I think it’s a reflection of the issues that voters prioritize and the past records. I learned that there are a lot of rational voters who approach issues based on science and facts while representing this area in the State Senate. I think the difference was that voters who are concerned about crime and safety trusted me more, especially since I received the official endorsement of the California police association.”
-What does the election mean to you and your family?
“I feel a heavy sense of responsibility. It means that I am responsible for the thoughts of local voters about the community and the country. The election is not about Dave Min as an individual but about the residents’ commitment to what they believe in and value. It is a great honor and privilege for me.”
-What changes will you bring?
“Through my work in the State Senate, I have been able to enact better policies and legislation in the areas of the environment, gun control, education improvement, and economy. In fact, many young people are currently pessimistic about the economy. We need to change this. The Democratic Party has become a minority opposition party again, but I believe there will be another chance in two years.”
-You have been in the spotlight for speaking out against the party’s policies in the state Senate.
“Sometimes, to make the right decisions, I have to go against the party’s policies. I will choose the ‘right thing’ for the benefit and development of the community. I believe this is what the voters want.”
-There was an incident about hateful graffiti during the election.
“Unfortunately, there is tension in racial conflicts. Asian hate is on the rise again, and there is a growing concern that it will be exacerbated again with a new president. I will do everything I can as a federal congressman. I hope voters will watch over me and support me.”
-What does it mean to become the fifth Korean-American congressman?
“Again, it’s an honor, but I believe there should be more coming from the Korean-American community. I represent the residents of the 47th district, but I also have a duty to represent Korean Americans. I will do my best.”
BY BRIAN CHOI, HOONSIK WOO [woo.hoonsik@koreadaily.com]
