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: Eric Ching
Current Job Title: Entrepreneur, councilmember, + volunteer COO at a nonprofit
Political Party Affiliation: Republican
Incumbent: No
Other political positions held: Councilmember
City where you reside: Walnut
Campaign website or social media: www.ericchingforcongress.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.?
The U.S. should provide as much assistance as possible — military and/or financial — to foreign countries at war, provided that the assistance serves our national interests.
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?
We should first stop drugs, weapons and known terrorists and criminals from coming in and then on to other issues.
As AI technology continues to rapidly expand, what do you see as the federal government’s role in creating and enforcing a regulatory framework?
The federal government should create and enforce a regulatory framework to ensure that AI technology is safe, fair and inclusive.
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?
The number of Supreme Court justices and the role they play should stay the way it is. I would not support any kind of reform at this time simply because some did not like the decisions it made in recent years.
What is one environment or climate policy you’d champion if elected?
Consumer products should not cause more negative environmental impacts than the intended benefit. I would carefully consider the net effects of any bill.
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?
Public servants should be held to higher moral and ethical standards.
2023 was a year for labor in California. What is one policy you’d champion to support workers, if elected?
The net effect of any bill should be beneficial to both the labor and employer as a whole, and there should be a win-win approach.
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.
I will use my proven records serving in local government for over a decade, nearly three decades in running businesses and my background as a first-generation immigrant who understands some complex international issues to serve.
My tenure as a councilmember and two-term mayor of Walnut resulted in the city being recognized by Money Magazine as one of the best places to live. Our city boasts pristine parks, well-maintained streets and secure neighborhoods. Responsible financial policies have allowed our reserves to surpass 200% in 2023 with additional funding allocated for seniors, youth and enduring parks and recreation programs that will last for decades.
Describe your political philosophy in 10 words or less.
I believe in serving, protecting and prioritizing people’s interests.
What is your go-to campaign trail snack or drink?
Sparking water.
