Rep. Dave Min, U.S. Representative for California’s 47th District, visited Los Angeles’ Koreatown on May 9, marking his first official visit to the community since taking office. During the visit, he addressed several federal policy concerns, including potential impacts on Korean American and immigrant communities.
Min Criticizes Proposed Medicaid Cuts and DEI Rollbacks
Min warned that proposed Medicaid budget cuts and the rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies under the Trump administration could severely impact Korean American residents. He emphasized that he would work to block these measures.
He pointed out that Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), proposed the Medicaid budget reduction as part of federal spending cuts. Although the proposal is not yet finalized, Min expressed concern that the White House may incorporate it into the final budget.
Regarding the elimination of DEI policies, Min argued that while the move is presented as a cost-saving measure, it would ultimately restrict critical services for minorities, immigrants, nonprofit organizations, and seniors. He noted that Korean American seniors would also face significant hardships if such policies were repealed.
Min Urges Voter Vigilance and Accountability
Min acknowledged that many Korean American voters supported Trump in the last presidential election but said he doubts they anticipated the current White House’s direction. He stressed the need for ongoing public oversight of the federal government, adding that he plans to continue criticizing what he called Trump’s three “I” problems—Illegal, Immoral, and Incompetent— from within Congress.
Sharing his personal story, Min said his parents came to the United States on student visas, dreaming of the American Dream, and eventually saw their son elected to Congress. He argued that targeting hard-working immigrants striving for similar dreams is unjust.
Min Highlights Korea Visit and Advises Civic Engagement
Min, who visited the National Assembly of Korea three weeks ago, said he was proud to see Korea overcoming its emergency martial law situation effectively.
He also advised residents to consistently raise issues and demand improvements from their local federal representatives if they disagree with the current administration’s policies.
Min Reaffirms Commitment to Bipartisanship and His District
On his re-election bid next year, Min acknowledged that he won by a narrow margin, which has prompted some to advise him to maintain a centrist stance. However, he stressed that he was elected as a law professor promoting common-sense values and would continue working to persuade Republican lawmakers while focusing on supporting constituents in need.
Min’s district, California’s 47th Congressional District, covers parts of southern Orange County, including Huntington Beach, Irvine, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach.
BY BRIAN CHOI [choi.inseong@koreadaily.com]
