‘K-Team’ candidates intensify campaigns ahead of November elections

With approximately 70 days remaining until the November general elections, the “K-Team” candidates in Koreatown are ramping up their campaign efforts. The elections, including the presidential and general elections, are set for November 5, leaving only two and a half months for candidates to secure votes.

In response to the voters’ demand for change demonstrated in the primaries, David Kim (California’s 34th Congressional District), Grace Yoo (LA City Council District 10), and John Yi (California Assembly District 54) are focusing on direct voter engagement and mail-in campaigns to align with the preferences of their respective districts.

David Kim plans to send a comprehensive letter next week to the 11,000 Korean-American voters in his district, outlining key issues and reform agendas. His campaign will emphasize the incumbent’s lack of communication and accountability while presenting new alternatives. Kim also announced a large supporter picnic and a major fundraising event next month.

His door-to-door visits will continue every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to noon, with volunteer support being actively sought. For more information, people can contact the Kim campaign at https://davidkimforca.com/.

Grace Yoo recently secured the endorsement of retired judge Terry Friedman, who served 17 years on the LA County Superior Court. Judge Friedman praised Yoo as a well-prepared and essential candidate for victory.

Yoo has also garnered support from Judge Ann Park of the Superior Court of Los Angeles County, former City Councilman and LAPD Chief Bernard Parks, Congressman Mark Takano, and LA Unified School District Board Member Jackie Goldberg, showcasing broad support from the legal, law enforcement, and education communities. The Yoo campaign continues its fundraising efforts and volunteer recruitment at https://www.graceforla.com/.

John Yi has intensified his door-to-door visits over the past month, now dedicating 5-7 hours on weekdays to engage with voters. He believes that personal outreach is the best strategy to overcome his opponent’s significant financial and organizational advantages.

Yi’s campaign is also seeking contributions from supporters within the Korean-American community. Six paid staffers are currently working on his campaign, which is also focusing on social media outreach through videos created by Yi himself. Known for his advocacy with a non-profit organization for pedestrian rights, Yi’s videos highlight his extensive community engagement in Koreatown. On July 28, the campaign will host a pool party in downtown LA to strengthen team unity.

BY INSEONG CHOI, YOUNGNAM KIM [choi.inseong@koreadaily.com]