Ahead of the March primary, The Orange County Register compiled a list of questions to pose to the candidates who wish to represent you. You can find the full questionnaire below. Questionnaires may have been edited for spelling, grammar, length and, in some instances, to remove hate speech and offensive language.
MORE: Read all the candidate responses in our Voter Guide
Name: Kim Nguyen-Penaloza
Current Job Title: Garden Grove City Councilmember
Political Party Affiliation: Democrat
Incumbent: No
Other political positions held: Garden Grove City Councilmember
City where you reside: Garden Grove
Campaign website or social media: www.votekimnguyen.com
How much assistance should the U.S. provide — military and/or financial — to foreign countries at war, like Israel or Ukraine? What, if any, should be the litmus test for American allies to receive assistance from the U.S.?
Russia’s war on Ukraine is an illegal invasion of a sovereign country and is a threat to democracies worldwide. It is important for the U.S. to remain steadfast in our support for Ukraine and continue relief efforts to promote democracy and their ability to defend their homeland. We cannot let Vladimir Putin’s power go unchecked.
Israel also has a right to defend itself against terrorism, and I support a strong U.S.-Israel relationship, which includes aid to Israel. It is in America’s security interest. I also believe the current conflict must be conducted in a manner that takes all steps to protect civilian life. Ultimately, we will only have lasting peace if both sides work toward a two-state solution.
Border security continues to be a concern for many Americans. What is one proposal, that you believe could get bipartisan support, to address the border?
As the daughter of an immigrant and refugee, I know that immigrants are the backbone of this country. However, our current system is deeply flawed. First and foremost, instead of stoking fear about immigrants with divisive rhetoric, we should seek bipartisan solutions, focusing on finding a pathway to citizenship and fixing our broken system.
As AI technology continues to rapidly expand, what do you see as the federal government’s role in creating and enforcing a regulatory framework?
Breakthroughs in artificial intelligence represent the next great frontier of technological advancement. The federal government should ensure that it is regulated, especially in regards to digital manipulation of a person’s likeness (deepfakes) without someone’s permission, disinformation or the stealing of intellectual property, and AI that infringes on people’s rights, or is harmful, is curtailed. Like all emerging technologies, AI must be understood within its many applications, both its benefits and drawbacks, and its innovation into helpful industries should be encouraged but monitored.
The role — and size — of the U.S. Supreme Court has come under scrutiny in recent years. Do you believe more justices should be added to the nation’s highest court, or would you support any kind of reform, like term limits?
I believe there needs to be an increase in transparency and a strong code of ethics implemented. I am open to potential term limits and expanding the size of the court.
What is one environment or climate policy you’d champion if elected?
Southern California is especially vulnerable to sea-level rise, wildfires and extreme weather. We need more investments into innovative technologies such as batteries and energy storage and to lower emissions with a transition to renewable energy. Cities and local governments need to be given more direct funding to deal with and prepare for climate disasters and extreme weather events as they become more common. We also need to ensure workers are at the center of the conversation on any climate policy to ensure smooth transitions of the workforce to decrease negative impacts to our communities.
The George Santos saga made for numerous memes and “SNL” skits. But what is one thing Congress should take away from the former congressman’s expulsion from the House?
Santos is just another example of a larger issue in Congress. We need to impose stronger ethics rules, overturn Citizens United and implement stronger campaign finance laws.
2023 was a year for labor in California. What is one policy you’d champion to support workers, if elected?
As the only candidate in this race endorsed by labor, I am proud of my record of putting working families first and delivering high-paying jobs to my city and would continue to champion workers in Washington, D.C. In Congress, I would continue this work, including being a fervent advocate for passing the PRO Act to protect workers’ rights to unionize.
If you are an incumbent, tell us the most significant accomplishment of your most recent term. If you’re a newcomer, tell us how you, as a freshman, would stand out.
No one elected to Congress has ever looked like me. As someone who grew up here and who lives, works and serves in this community every day, I understand this district. There are too many wealthy and well-connected members of Congress; we need more homegrown leaders, new parents and working men and women in the House.
Describe your political philosophy in 10 words or less.
Reproductive freedom, safe, affordable communities, liveable wages, increased healthcare access.
What is your go-to campaign trail snack or drink?
Dutch Mocha from Phin Smith and In-n-Out Burger (cheeseburger, sub raw onions, fries and a Coke).
