Korean-American federal lawmakers, including Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ), the first Korean-American to enter the U.S. Senate, began their legislative activities on the inaugural day of the 119th U.S. Congress, which convened on January 3. Following the federal elections held alongside the presidential race on November 5 last year, the Korean-American community successfully elected one U.S. Senator and three U.S. Representatives.

Senator Andy Kim transitioned to the Senate after serving as a U.S. Representative from New Jersey since his election in 2018, marking his ascent to the Senate in just six years. Meanwhile, in the House of Representatives, Young Kim (R-CA, 40th District) and Marilyn Strickland (D-WA, 10th District) both secured third terms. Dave Min (D-CA, 47th District), a former California State Senator, won his first term in the House, further amplifying the Korean-American community's political influence in the 119th Congress.

Andy Kim’s Senate Role
Senator Andy Kim began his Senate duties earlier than expected on December 8, following the resignation of former Senator Bob Menendez over bribery allegations. During the 119th Congress, Kim will serve on four Senate standing committees: the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, the Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee.

Kim emphasized his commitment to delivering tangible results, stating, "From building affordable housing to lowering healthcare costs, creating future jobs, and strengthening national security, I promise to work hard to achieve practical outcomes beyond political interests."

Young Kim’s Continued Rise
Representative Young Kim, a Republican, was first elected in 2020 from California’s 39th District. After redistricting shifted her constituency to the 40th District, she won reelection in 2022 and secured a third term in 2024. Her increasing seniority is expected to enhance her influence in Congress, particularly in advocating for South Korea’s interests on committees such as the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Marilyn Strickland: Breaking Barriers
Democratic Representative Marilyn Strickland continues to break barriers as the first Black federal lawmaker from Washington State. She made history with her initial election in 2020, and her subsequent reelections in 2022 and 2024 mark her as a trailblazer. Strickland's achievements underscore her significance as both a Korean-American and a prominent member of Congress.

Dave Min’s Promising Start
Freshman Congressman Dave Min, a second-generation Korean-American, brings an impressive background as a graduate of Harvard Law School and a former UC Irvine law professor. A Democrat representing Orange County, Min has built a strong local foundation during his four years in the California State Senate. While born and raised in the U.S., Min has consistently embraced and championed his Korean heritage throughout his political career.

These four lawmakers signify a growing political presence and influence for the Korean-American community in the U.S. Congress.

<Sehee Roh>