Former California Congresswoman Michelle Steel announced she will not seek re-election after losing by a narrow margin to Rep. Derek Tran in November. Steel, who served two terms in Congress, expressed a desire to focus on other political ambitions, including her role on the Asian-American coalition appointed by Speaker Mike Johnson. She emphasized her commitment to supporting both Asian Americans in the U.S. and other Asian countries, highlighting her ongoing involvement in Republican initiatives, particularly aligning with President Trump’s agenda. This move opens the door for a competitive Republican primary in the next election cycle, alongside a potentially costly general election in 2026.
Steel noted the importance of fundraising and connecting with the diverse ethnic communities within her former district. As a first-generation American, she feels a unique understanding of the challenges faced by immigrant populations. She stressed the value of listening to these communities to better address their needs and praised America as a land of opportunity where hard work can lead to achieving dreams. This immigrant experience shapes her perspective on the political landscape, especially in a state with a significant number of first-generation residents.
Addressing the contentious issue of immigration, Steel criticized the anti-ICE sentiment prevalent among some Democrats, arguing it stems from a misunderstanding of illegal immigration’s implications. She differentiated between law-abiding immigrants and those who commit serious crimes, stating that enforcement actions target dangerous individuals rather than innocent immigrants. Steel believes proper messaging is crucial to correcting these misconceptions and ensuring safety for American citizens, aligning her views with Trump’s stance on the need for deportation of criminal offenders.
Steel’s decision to step back comes at a time when California Governor Gavin Newsom threatens redistricting to curb Republican gains, particularly as migration patterns shift in the state. Steel responded to Newsom’s comments on social media by pointing out the exodus of Republicans from California and argued for proactive measures to improve conditions in the state. She expressed a commitment to stabilize California’s socio-political environment and foster a place that supports both residents and new immigrants.
Furthermore, Steel’s commentary reflects her strong opposition to current Democratic leadership in California, including Mayor Karen Bass, whom she criticized for not understanding the needs of constituents. She articulated a desire to combat policies that she believes are detrimental to California and its residents, indicating a vision of a renewed Republican leadership that can address state issues more effectively. Steel’s perspective underscores an emotional connection to her constituents, reinforcing her belief in hard work as the key to success.
In summary, while stepping away from her congressional role, Steel remains actively engaged in promoting issues pertinent to Asian-American communities and immigrants. Her decision is poised to reshape the Republican landscape in California as potential candidates emerge for the next election cycle. Through her continued advocacy, Steel aims to unite diverse groups and advance a message of safety and opportunity for all Californians, hoping to eventually see a Republican resurgence in local governance.
