**California Republicans Stand Strong as Battleground Races Loom**
California's political landscape remains as competitive as ever as Republican Representatives Young Kim and Michelle Steel gear up for pivotal races in November amid a challenging environment for the GOP in the Golden State.
With their districts in Southern California being hotly contested, both women exhibit an unwavering commitment to their constituents and a desire to restore the state's former glory.
“My family and I came here as immigrants, and we are now living the American dream, but it’s not the same state of California that it once was,” Kim stated, emphasizing the struggles many faced due to rising living costs and a burdensome tax regime.
She continued, “But here I am, instead of leaving, I am staying in the fight. And hopefully, in a short period of time, we will be able to bring back the hope and the Golden State that it once was.”
Both incumbents are not just surviving; they're thriving. In the 2022 elections, Kim garnered 57% of the vote, while Steel secured 52%. Now, as they prepare to face off against their Democratic challengers, confidence radiates from their campaigns.
Steel emphasized the value that the increasing immigrant population—particularly Asian Americans—brings to her district. “I still see the hope,” she said. “We have a lot of immigrants coming in, especially Asian American immigrants. They’re here, they work hard, and they can see it. Something has to be changed. And it is eventually getting changed.”
The focus remains largely on economic issues that are top of mind for Californians, with many voters feeling the strain of high taxes and living expenses. Both Kim and Steel opposed the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, decisions they believe resonate positively with their constituents.
Their legislative efforts center on maintaining tax stability, a direct contrast to the Biden administration’s goal of increasing the corporate tax rate. Steel, an active member of the Ways and Means Committee, remarked, “We’re working on that. How are we going to keep that corporate tax at 21% when the Biden administration wants to raise it to 28%?”
Additionally, Kim pointed to her efforts on the Inflation Prevention Act to prevent further inflationary pressures until economic conditions improve. “We shouldn’t be passing any bills that will add to more of that burden,” she asserted, reflecting the GOP’s focus on fiscal responsibility.
Despite navigating a landscape rife with criticism—often centered around issues like abortion and the controversial Project 2025—both representatives remain steadfast. Kim dismissed these distractions, saying, “The very polarized news that is going on in our country is hyped up.”
As they build their ground game for the upcoming elections, Kim and Steel are rallying support through phone banking and canvassing, vital strategies in the heavily contested Orange County districts.
The Cook Political Report indicates a favorable outlook for both women, with Steel's race labeled as “Lean Republican” and Kim’s as “Likely Republican.”
Moreover, financial backing bolsters their campaigns, as Kim holds a significant $3.6 million compared to her opponent’s $470,000, while Steel enjoys $3.8 million against her challenger’s $1.15 million.
In a state where Republican voices often struggle to be heard, Young Kim and Michelle Steel exemplify the resilience and determination needed to reclaim their political turf. Their message is clear: They stand for fiscal responsibility, the American Dream, and, above all, the hope of a brighter future for all Californians.
As the November elections draw closer, all eyes will be on these inspiring leaders who represent not just their districts but the enduring spirit of Republicans across the nation.
Sources:
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