BELLEVUE—Washington State made history on Saturday, October 12, at the Stan Head Cultural Center with its first-ever Asian Political Candidates Forum, highlighting unity and collaboration across diverse ethnic communities. This landmark event demonstrated that, regardless of ethnicity or background, communities across the state are united in their shared vision for the future.
The forum was the brainchild of Sam Sim, State Representative candidate for Legislative District 44, and Lynn Trinh, State Representative candidate for Legislative District 48. Their vision for this event is to continue building a collective of Asian and ethnic candidates who are committed to representation, balance, and education within the Puget Sound community. The Asian Political Candidates Forum will continue as a platform to empower diverse voices, and future forums are expected to follow.
The forum was emceed by Bill Cooper, Snohomish County Republican Chairman, and brought together a diverse group of candidates committed to serving their communities and working toward common goals.
Candidates in attendance included:
- Sam Sim (State Representative candidate for LD 44), representing the Korean community.
- Lynn Trinh (State Representative candidate for LD 48), representing the Chinese community.
- Riaz Khan (State Representative candidate for LD 21), representing the Muslim community in Puget Sound.
- Sharon Hanek (candidate for State Treasurer), of Japanese descent.
- Deep Mangat (LD 44 PCO Captain), representing the Indian and Punjabi community.
“This forum is not only significant for the Korean American community but for all ethnicities and Americans across Washington,” said Sam Sim. “It represents the collective power of our diverse communities coming together to shape the future of our state. This event serves as a reminder that our strength lies in our unity and shared values, and together we can work to build a brighter future for all.”
Lynn Trinh, candidate for State Representative LD 48, added, “This forum is about more than politics. It’s about breaking barriers and building connections between communities. We’re showing that, despite our different backgrounds, we are united in our commitment to making Washington a better place for everyone. Our shared experiences and values bring us closer, and it is through this unity that we can create real, lasting change.”
The Asian Candidates Group emphasized that their efforts will extend far beyond the current election. Their goal is to empower new political leadership, nurture the next generation of leaders, and continue educating, informing, and providing representation for all communities. This ongoing work is focused on increasing awareness and ensuring that all voices are heard within the state’s diverse communities.
During the forum, the audience raised key issues, including cost of living, affordable housing, education, public safety, and voter integrity. The candidates engaged directly with these concerns, offering their perspectives on how these issues affect communities and presenting solutions aimed at fostering long-term stability and growth.
The forum underscored the importance of cross-cultural collaboration, as the candidates discussed key issues such as education, public safety, and economic growth. Despite different cultural backgrounds, the gathering highlighted the candidates’ unified commitment to improving the quality of life for all Washingtonians, emphasizing that diversity strengthens communities and fosters positive change.
For more information, please contact PR Manager, Ron Kim at hello@samsim.org or visit www.samsim.org.
SOURCE: Sam Sim, State Rep Candidate, LD 44
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
