California Assemblymember Evan Low has been sacked from the Business and Professions Committee, San Jose Spotlight reports.
Low is a Democrat who represents the 28th district in Northern California. The district encompasses parts of South San Jose, Los Gatos, Saratoga, Monte Sereno, Cupertino and Campbell.
Last week, Speaker Anthony Rendon stripped Low of his chairmanship and membership on the committee without explanation. A source close to Low told San Jose Spotlight that there is a rift growing between Rendon, Low and other Democrats.
Low’s office issued a statement saying it was an honor to serve on the committee.
“My colleagues and I crafted legislation to help small businesses, combat the opioid crisis, implement a system to regulate legal cannabis, and work with Gov. Gavin Newsom to protect patients and health professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Low said. “I look forward to continuing to serve in any capacity.”
He declined to provide a comment to the San Jose Spotlight.
According to Advocate, several LGBTQ+ groups are concerned by Low’s removal. The Bay Area Municipal Elections Committee, an LGBTQ+ political action committee, released a statement on Twitter saying they were “outraged.”
“Assemblymember Low’s leadership has been crucial in responding to the crisis of hate and attacks against AAPI and LGBTQ+ people. To talk about elevating leaders that represent our communities while doing the opposite is mere lip service,” the statement said.
John. C Yang, the Executive Director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice, called the decision to remove and replace Low “troubling.”
“At a time when anti-Asian hate remains an issue, why this change?” Yang wrote on Twitter. “Will he receive another Chair position? If not, why not?”
AsAmNews has Asian America in its heart. We’re an all-volunteer effort of dedicated staff and interns. Check out our new Instagram account. Go to our Twitter feed and Facebook page for more content. Please consider interning, joining our staff, or submitting a story, or making a contribution.
