An analysis by AsAmNews finds a record number of Asian Americans could be serving in Congress next year (pictured Rep Ami Bera).
Currently 11 Asian American elected officials sit on Capitol Hill–10 in the House and one in the Senate. All 11 are Democrats. That’s the most ever. After today’s mid-term election, its possible there could be 12, possibly 13, setting a new high.
These six Asian American incumbents are expected to win easily today. They are:
- Rep. Bobby Scott (D) District 3 Virginia
- Rep. Tammy Duckworth (D) District 8 Illinois
- Rep. Grace Meng (D) District 6 New York
- Rep. Doris Matsui (D) District 6 California
- Rep. Judy Chu (D) District 27 California
- Rep Tulsi Gabbard District 2 Hawaii
Asian American candidates are also expected to place 1 and 2 in two congressional districts. In California’s District 17, Japanese American Mike Honda, a 7 time incumbent, faces Indian American Ro Khanna. In Hawaii’s District 1 Rep Mark Takai is running against Charles Djou.
That would bring the total number of elected Asian Americans in Congress to 9 after you add Senator Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii),who was elected in 2013.
It’s also safe to add California State Senator Ted Lieu who is likely to replace the retiring Rep Henry Waxman (D) in District 33
Rep Mark Takano (D) in California District 41 is in a rematch with Steve Adams (R) under the rules of California’s open primary system in which voters can vote for any candidate regardless of party. Takano beat Adams by 7 points in the primary. The two top vote-getters advance to the general election, thus the rematch.
The biggest question mark is Rep Ami Bera (D) District 7 in California. He’s facing former Rep. Doug Ose who last was in office in 2004. Analysts give Bera a slight edge in the race.
Also in contention tonight is Roy Cho in New Jersey’s District 5. He’s up against Rep. Scott Garrett.
Of course none of this can happen unless you go out an vote and flex your Asian American muscle.
Rep Mark Takano District 41 California
