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Michelle Steel, a former Republican Congresswoman from California, has announced that she will not be seeking reelection for another term in Congress. After narrowly losing by over 600 votes to Rep. Derek Tran in November, Steel stated that she is focusing on other political endeavors.
“I have other goals that I am passionate about, including working on President Trump’s agenda and serving on the Asian-American coalition appointed by Speaker Mike Johnson. I want to advocate for Asian-Americans in the United States and other Asian countries,” Steel, who is also a board member of the Lincoln Club, expressed.
GOP Rep. Michelle Steel, left, and challenger Derek Tran, right (Getty Images)
Her decision not to run for reelection is expected to lead to a competitive Republican primary and a significant general election battle in 2026.
“I believe I can make a greater impact with my current work,” she explained, dismissing the idea of pursuing another elected position.
Steel, along with Representatives Young Kim and Marilyn Strickland, made history as the first Korean-American women in Congress. As a first-generation American herself, Steel emphasized the importance of fundraising and engaging with diverse ethnic communities within the district for any Republican candidate aiming to reclaim the seat.
Migrants arrive at a makeshift camp after crossing the nearby border with Mexico near the Jacumba Hot Springs Feb. 23, 2024, in San Diego. (Qian Weizhong/VCG via Getty Images)
“Understanding the needs of first-generation immigrants is crucial. It is important to engage with each community and listen to their specific challenges in settling in America. This country offers great opportunities, and with hard work, dreams can be realized,” Steel remarked.
Steel also criticized the anti-ICE sentiment in California and among Democrats, stating that it stems from a misunderstanding of the issues related to illegal immigration.
“There is a misconception that enforcing immigration laws equates to targeting immigrants. However, we are focused on deporting illegal criminals to ensure the safety of Americans,” Steel emphasized.
Rep. Michelle Steel, R-Calif., attends a hearing, “Calling for Accountability: Stopping Antisemitic College Chaos” before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce on Capitol Hill May 23, 2024, in Washington, D.C. (Michael A. McCoy/Getty Images)
“We need to communicate our message effectively, especially to first-generation immigrants. I have received calls from individuals outside the country expressing concerns about immigrant arrests, including those of citizens. It is crucial to clarify that our focus is on removing dangerous criminals for the safety of all Americans,” Steel added.
Steel’s decision comes as California Governor Gavin Newsom considers redistricting in an effort to prevent potential Republican gains in Texas.
“Two can play this game,” Newsom stated on X July 15.
Rep. Michelle Steel speaks to supporters at her campaign office in Buena Park, Calif., Sept. 26, 2022. (Paul Bersebach/MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images)
“I recently read that Democrats are flocking to California while Republicans are leaving. It is essential to consider what will truly benefit Californians. California is a beautiful state, and I remain committed to its preservation,” Steel asserted.
“It is important to stop the politicians who are causing harm, not just to California, but to its people. I hope that the upcoming election will bring about positive change, with a Republican emerging victorious,” she concluded.
The governor of New York, Andrew Cuomo, announced on Monday that the state has seen a significant decrease in the number of new COVID-19 cases. This is the first time the state has reported a decrease since the pandemic began.
Cuomo stated that the decrease in cases is a positive sign that the state’s efforts to control the spread of the virus are working. He credited the decrease to the strict social distancing measures that have been put in place, as well as the increased testing and contact tracing efforts.
Despite the decrease in cases, Cuomo warned that the state is not out of the woods yet and that it is important for residents to continue following social distancing guidelines and wearing masks in public.
The governor also announced that the state will be launching a new initiative to provide free COVID-19 testing to all New Yorkers. The initiative will focus on testing in low-income communities and communities of color, which have been disproportionately affected by the virus.
Overall, Cuomo expressed cautious optimism about the state’s progress in controlling the virus, but emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant in order to prevent a resurgence in cases.
