The Democrats of Greater Irvine Council Candidates Forum and Endorsement Vote is happening Wednesday July 3 at the IRWD Community Room at 15500 San Canyon (there is a Zoom option) and, if you’re a member, you need to sign up by registering here.

 Agenda:

• 6:30 PM: Enjoy a Pizza Social – a perfect setting to discuss our city’s prospects
• 7:00 PM: The Forum begins – get to know your candidates and their visions

We will be doing a vote among members in good standing regarding using instant instant runoff ranked choice voting with a 60% threshold for this endorsement. Learn more about the forum agenda and voting process here.

Only DGI members who meet our bylaws’ criteria will have their votes count. Check here:

• A registered voter with the Democratic Party in OC.
• You’ve attended at least one previous meeting in the past year 12 months prior to June 30.
• Your 2024 dues were cheerfully paid by June 30.
• You attend the July 3rd meeting, either in-person or by Zoom.

The following statements were provided to DGI by candidates seeking Democratic Party endorsement. Per California Democratic Party bylaws, non-partisan municipal and local races can only be endorsed within the Democratic Party by the respective county central committee, which for Irvine is the Democratic Party of Orange County (DPOC) Central Committee. Per bylaws, their endorsements become the endorsement of our chartered club. For those seats not yet endorsed, the DPOC Central Committee will be considering these races at their meetings on July 22nd, August 26th, and/or September 23rd. For those races not yet endorsed, DGI will vote on our position for support of endorsement after our July 3 Municipal and Local Candidate forum club meeting. 

The races remaining to be endorsed are Irvine City Council, districts 1, 2, and 3, and will be voted on by members in good standing who attended the July 3 club forum, either in-person or by Zoom. The candidates to be considered for support for endorsement by our club are in green bold below. Those that have early endorsement are italicized.

Summary of Local Candidates

• Irvine City Council
  • District 1
    • Jackie Kan
    • Melinda Liu
    • Dr. Zainab Saadi
  • District 2
    • Wiliam Go
    • Alex Mohajer
    • Jeff Starke
  • District 3
    • Tom Chomyn
    • Jing Sun
  • District 4: Ayn Craciun (early endorsed by DPOC)
• South Orange County Community College Board of Trustees
  • Area 1: Carolyn Inmon (early endorsed by DPOC)
  • Area 6: Ryan Dack (early endorsed by DPOC)
• Municipal Water District of Orange County, Division 6: Dr. Frank Gomez (early endorsed by DPOC)
• Irvine Unified School District Board of Trustees, Area 3: Cyril Yu (early endorsed by DPOC)

Irvine City Council Candidates

District 1

Jackie Kan

Statement

I am a lifelong Democrat, small business owner, mother and candidate for City Council District 1. 

My love for Irvine began during my undergraduate years at UCI, and I’ve seen how much the city has evolved over the last twenty years. We are now at a pivotal moment in our city’s growth, and we need robust infrastructure and a strong city council to support the Irvine of the next twenty years and beyond. 

I’ve spent my career driving digital transformation at Fortune 500 companies, gaining extensive experience managing complex projects and budgets. Additionally, I’ve dedicated time and energy to causes I’m passionate about. This includes serving on a board of an organization that supports survivors of sex trafficking, and volunteering for a pro-choice state Supreme Court candidate during the critical months following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. In Irvine, I’m a member of the Community Emergency Response Team, a program that prepares residents for emergencies such as fire disasters. 

When I became a mother, I was surprised to find that there are still no children’s dolls that represent Asian Americans without perpetuating stereotypes. This inspired me to launch a doll brand that celebrates AANHPI diversity. Representation matters in all areas.

As a councilmember, I will advocate for residents and prioritize safety, affordable housing, childcare and services that enhance Irvine’s exceptional quality of life. Our community deserves a councilmember who will listen with empathy, foster unity, and work to uplift residents. I’d be honored to have your vote. jackiekan.com

Melinda Liu

Statement

I’ve lived in Northwood for 20 years. I remember struggling to find a preschool for my 4-year-old son when most people signed their kids up before they were born. I eventually found a Montessori in the old El Toro Marine Base, and advocating to keep the school open after they lost the lease was my first experience in community activism in Irvine. I’m an estate planning attorney with a solo practice in Irvine. I’ve worked with many small business owners. I’m a single mom who raised 3 children through IUSD schools where I’m recognized as a super volunteer. I’m also my immigrant parents’ primary caregiver and moved them across the street from me. I’ve been an active community leader at various schools and charitable organizations in the last two decades and have developed deep roots in my community. I’ve campaigned for Dave Min, Katie Porter, Josh Newman, and Cottie Petrie-Norris.

I live, work, and play in Irvine with my multi-generational family. My experience from the last 20 years helps me understand the needs of our community and the importance of having support. My role as a Finance Commissioner gives me the knowledge on city business and fiscal policies. I’m running for city council in District 1 to keep Irvine accessible and sustainable for our families! I’ll advocate for safe community, workforce housing, sustainable public transportation, and environmentally responsible technologies for Irvine businesses and residents to continue to thrive! 

Dr. Zainab Saadi

Statement

My name is Dr. Zainab Saadi and I am a proud product of everything Irvine has to offer. As a physician, parent, and Irvine city commissioner, I am passionate about health and wellness. I’m running for city council to ensure the interests of our residents are always at the forefront of every decision made at city hall. 

I’m Irvine raised, part of the first complete graduating class of Northwood High School and earning my bachelor’s in neurobiology from UC Irvine before starting my career in medicine. Today, I have more than a decade of experience as a physician, helping patients from diverse backgrounds improve their quality of life.
After completing my medical training, I returned home to Irvine to raise my family and continue my work as a UC Irvine Health Sciences Assistant Clinical Professor. Throughout my career, I’ve devoted my life to helping people. I’m committed to being involved in our community, serving as an appointed commissioner to Irvine’s Senior Citizens Council and using my background to advise the city council on issues pertaining to older adults.

I am the only physician candidate across the city, can speak 4 languages, and have direct experience serving our city as a commissioner and educator. I can bring people together, and advance health and wellness.  

As your councilmember, I would bring a unique and much needed perspective as a physician, prioritizing quality of life, environmental health, quality housing, and equity for Irvine’s residents. I would be honored to earn your support to bring positive change to Irvine.

 

District 2

William Go

Statement

My wife, Jennifer, and I live in the Great Park and have been involved in our community for 2 decades. We met here over 20 years ago and have witnessed Irvine’s growth and transformation since my days at UCI, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in engineering and masters degree in business administration.

As a swim coach, instructor, lifeguard, and volunteer for UC Irvine’s Bike Ambassador program, I have been committed to promoting active transportation and safe recreation. I also served 2 years on the Irvine Great Park Task Force as an advocate for our neighborhoods.

I am running for city council to ensure that Irvine remains a place where everyone can thrive. Housing affordability and smart planning are crucial, especially given my personal experience as a young immigrant raised by a single mother. We need a leader who understands these challenges and advocates for inclusive growth.

Sustainable transportation is another key issue. The land near the Irvine train station in District 2 holds immense potential for more walkable development. We must transform this area into a vibrant, complete neighborhood.

Our campaign has a clear path to victory and leads in fundraising, with endorsements from Councilmember Tammy Kim, IUSD Trustee Dr. Jeff Kim, and a dozen local leaders. I am also the only Democratic AAPI candidate in a district with a majority AAPI population.

I would be honored to earn your vote and trust in this important election.

Join us at WillGoForIrvine.com

 

Alex Mohajer

Statement

My name is Alex Mohajer. I’m the openly gay son of Iranian working-class immigrants who was born and raised here in Irvine, attended K-12 public schools and community college here, and who wants to give back to a community that gave me and my family so much. In March, I ran a robust campaign for State Senate that won nearly 20,000 votes, raised nearly a quarter of a million dollars, and earned national press and endorsements. While we did not win the State Senate race, we inspired and activated young voters and mobilized a movement around our shared vision of a more progressive, inclusive California. Now, I want to continue that momentum and fight for the economic dignity of the working families of Irvine, to expand public transit and affordable housing policy, improve upon the after-school arts and music programs that enriched my childhood, and make Irvine a statewide leader on climate policy. If elected, I will be Irvine’s first openly gay City Councilmember, potentially its only Middle Eastern North African (MENA) representative, and potentially its youngest member. Let’s show the world that here in Orange County, we celebrate the rich and diverse tapestry of our citizens by electing diverse, progressive, and young leaders. www.alexmohajer.com

Jeff Starke

Statement

As a 10-year resident of Irvine, my family and I have had the pleasure of living in both Cypress Village and Portola Springs. Both are now part of District 2. My wife, Susan, and I have two children, ages 11 and 14, who attend IUSD schools. My journey into community service began when my daughter started school. I became an active volunteer in the classroom and served multiple terms on the PTA board.

I believe Irvine is at a pivotal moment. The choices we make today will shape the city’s future. My vision for Irvine emphasizes sustainable growth, focusing housing developments near transportation hubs and job centers to create a more efficient and environmentally friendly city.

The Great Park is a cornerstone of our community’s future. Residents have long paid additional tax to fund its development, yet many promised projects have stalled. I am committed to ensuring the Great Park is developed as planned, prioritizing the interests of the residents. 

Moreover, the retail development within the Great Park is crucial. Delays have led to overcrowded shopping centers in surrounding villages, increasing car trips and diminishing the shopping experience. Ensuring timely completion of these projects will enhance convenience and reduce traffic.

My dedication to Irvine’s growth and well-being drives my desire to serve on the City Council. Together, we can build a sustainable, efficient, and vibrant future for our community. Join me in making Irvine a place where we all thrive.

District 3

Tom Chomyn

Statement

“Honored to live in District 3 with my family for the last 27 years. After graduating from Indiana University with a degree in Urban Planning, I was drawn to California in the mid-1980’s by its magnificent lands and diversity of people. While keeping my interest in urban planning very much a part of my life, my love for meeting, serving, and building relationships with people drove my pursuit of a technology sales career, which has spanned over thirty years – 21 of those with Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company of America.  

If elected, I get to make full use of both my passions for the benefit of my Irvine friends and neighbors. My family has always believed in giving back to our community, and has been very involved in Pony Baseball, Irvine Swim League, AYSO Soccer, Irvine High School Boosters, and the Greentree Homeowners Association. 

Goals to improve Irvine & the 3rd District:

• Remodel & expand the Heritage Park Library
• Support the Veterans Memorial Park in the Great Park
• Hold the Orange County Power Authority (OCPA) Accountable 
• plant over 200,000 trees in Irvine over the next 10 years.
• As a Solar Panel owner, will encourage more Solar panels on Homes in Irvine thru a $5,000 rebate Program 

Jing Sun

Statement

Irvine is where I went to school, built my business, and raised my children. 

As City Commissioner, I give back by strengthening the services all families count on – park amenities, recreational programs, and cultural events.

However, unbalanced growth and rising housing costs are challenging the Irvine we love. 

We need new, ethical leadership with a diverse background. Someone you can trust that will put residents and community first. Always.

I want to get your vote to bring more diversity, equity and inclusion to our civic life!

 

District 4

Ayn Craciun

Ayn Craciun was endorsed early by the Democratic Party of Orange County on May 29, 2024, That endorsement became that of DGI and therefore will not be considered on our endorsement support ballot after the July 3, 2024 meeting.

Statement

I am a working mom, proven community leader, and environmental health advocate. As a Councilmember, I am committed to meeting Irvine families’ needs for affordable housing, safe streets, public transportation, clean air, climate action and resilience.

As a veteran of the L.A. County foster care system and former resident of income-qualified affordable housing in Irvine, I overcame many obstacles to earn my bachelor’s degree, create a successful career in the business world and nonprofit sector, and establish a life and family in Irvine. I believe everyone deserves safety and equality, and I will fight to protect these freedoms for all.

I have earned the endorsement of the Democratic Party of OC, Irvine Democratic Club, Congresswoman Katie Porter, Assemblymember Cottie Petrie Norris, Councilmember Kathleen Treseder, PhD, and Councilmember Tammy Kim, among others.

Twice elected chair of the City of Irvine Sustainability Commission, I am the OC Policy Director for a nonprofit that provides transparency and accountability on climate action by local governments and state agencies. I have helped establish many policies to increase safety, sustainability and quality of life in Irvine, including Irvine’s nontoxic landscaping policy, OC’s first community choice energy program, Irvine’s fossil gas-free policy for new buildings, Irvine’s ban on gas-powered leaf blowers and a school bus transportation pilot program for Irvine high school students.

I have spoken out against corruption in public agencies, and in 2023 the Orange County Register named me among the most influential people in Orange County.

Visit ayn4irvine.com to learn more.

South Orange County Community College Board of Trustees

Area 1

Carolyn Inmon

Trustee and Clerk Carolyn Inmon was endorsed early by the Democratic Party of Orange County on June 24, 2024. That endorsement became that of DGI and therefore will not be considered on our endorsement support ballot after the July 3, 2024 meeting. 

Statement

I have loved serving on the South Orange County Community College District Board of Trustees (SOCCCD): 

Over the past four years, I have treated my position on the Board as a full-time job, using my experience as an educator and my leadership skills to make sure that Irvine Valley College, Saddleback College, and ATEP have the resources they need to thrive while remaining affordable and accessible to everyone. 

Securing resources during a down economy has not always been easy, which is why I have made it a point to meet one-on-one with legislators here in Orange County and Washington D.C. to help educate them on the important role community colleges play in society. 

I lend my talents and energy wherever they are most needed. I currently serve as Policy Committee Chair for SOCCCD. I established the Board’s new legislative subcommittee and was appointed to the Public Policy & Advocacy Committee for the Association of Community College Trustees. 

I started the “Trustee Inmon Guardian Scholarship” for former foster youth; advocated on behalf of our student veterans; formed a theater group to join me in attending community college productions; and helped organize a clothing drive for the new campus “Clothing Corner” that will partner with the existing food pantry for students in need. 

I created a column in an Irvine newspaper to spotlight our local community college students. My article “IVC Named Best Community College in California” has been viewed by 58,701 people and shared 585 times on Facebook. Awesome stats!

But, there is more work I want to do! 

• My appointment to the national Public Policy & Advocacy Committee means our local community colleges will have a seat (and a voice) at the table when new policies and advocacy priorities are being established. 
• My outreach to the Irvine community includes my newspaper column, my theater group which keeps on growing, and periodic clothing drives as I continue to nourish the relationship between Irvine residents and IVC students. 
• My staunch support and persistence helped bring about student housing which we must continue to monitor to make sure it happens. And now I join other leaders to bring opportunities to earn BA degrees to both colleges. 

For these and other reasons, I hope to receive your endorsement and continue to serve our excellent colleges. Thank you in advance. 

Area 6

Ryan Dack

Trustee Ryan Dack was endorsed early by the Democratic Party of Orange County on May 29, 2024, and therefore will not be on our endorsement support ballot after the July 3, 2024 meeting. 

Statement

I am proud to have served for two years on the South Orange County Community College board, and am proud to be running for re-election to a full four year term. While there is still a lot of work to be done, Irvine Valley College and Saddleback College have increased their enrollment back to pre-covid levels, and we are on the verge of finalizing a housing plan for unhoused community college students.. I hope I can accomplish much more with a full term when re-elected in November.

Municipal Water District of Orange County

Division 6

Dr. Frank Gomez was endorsed early by the Democratic Party of Orange County on April 29, 2024, and therefore will not be on our endorsement support ballot after the July 3, 2024 meeting. 

Irvine Unified School District Board of Trustees

Area 3

Cyril Yu

Trustee Cyril Yu was endorsed early by the Democratic Party of Orange County on June 24, 2024. That endorsement became that of DGI and therefore will not be considered on our endorsement support ballot after the July 3, 2024 meeting.

Statement

Re-elect Cyril Yu to the Irvine Unified School District school board.  I was first elected in 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic.  At the time, it was critically important to have leaders who understood the importance of protecting the health and safety of our students, teachers, and staff, while ensuring that every student received a quality education.  In the past three years, I have met those challenges and more.  I have worked closely with teachers, staff, and administrators.  I have uplifted student voices.  And I have advocated to get necessary resources into our classrooms and facilities.  I am honored to have served our community and I am committed to continuing this very important work. 

Given the state’s current budget shortfall, it is imperative that school funding not be compromised.  Without sufficient resources, we cannot provide the high-quality education that our students deserve.  I will continue to advocate for the funding necessary to support our students, teachers, and schools. 

I have vigorously supported policies and practices that ensure equity.  Every student deserves an opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstance.  Although IUSD has worked tirelessly in this area, the pandemic exposed the remaining deficiencies.  To remedy that, we have committed more resources to address student mental health and deployed targeted interventions to fill learning gaps. 

With your endorsement, I can continue to advocate for our students.  Together, we can ensure that every student receives a high-quality education and the support they need to succeed.  Thank you for your support.

 

EDITOR’S NOTE:  Here’s the link for DPOC endorsements.