Democrats are spending $100 million to pass Proposition 50, a redistricting measure that will appear before voters in November.
Young Kim (Republican, California’s 40th District) warned in an interview with The Korea Daily on October 23 that Democrats are using Prop 50 to seize power and undermine fair representation.
Who does this election benefit?
“Obviously, the Democrats. The biggest loser will be Californians. Governor Gavin Newsom and Democrats are pushing this to flip Republican Party seats. Voters will lose balanced representation. President Donald Trump got 40% support from California in the last presidential election. This redistricting destroys that balance.”
You’re saying Democrats are using redistricting as a political weapon?
“For 15 years, California has used an independent redistricting commission. Democrats shut down the commission outside the normal cycle and privately redrew a map that benefits them. It nullifies a voter-made system.”
Democrats say, “Trump did it first.”
“Texas is different. The Legislature draws lines there, and courts are currently involved. California has always relied on an independent commission. Democrats are bypassing rules and turning redistricting into political revenge.”
What about the legislative process in Sacramento?
“They rushed this so the new map would apply next year. It’s a power grab for immediate political gain.”
How will your district change?
“My district would expand into Riverside County, while big parts of Orange County are cut out. As the only Republican Party member of Congress from Orange County, this will weaken conservative representation and silence the community’s voice.”
Several challengers are running, including Esther Kim Barrett.
“I don’t worry about any particular opponent. My focus is on delivering results for the voters. In every election, I’ve shown how hard I work and how I bring needed resources to the community. I’ve run effective, competitive campaigns that communicate my message clearly to voters — and I will continue to do so.”
What is the outlook for the U.S. Ambassador to South Korea?
“I expect President Trump to announce a nomination after the APEC summit. South Korea is a pillar of a free and open Indo-Pacific. The nominee must understand South Korea’s history and security importance.”
BY KYEONGJUN KIM [kim.kyeongjun1@koreadaily.com]
