In a recent development, Esther Kim Varet, a Democratic candidate from California, has been called upon to clarify why her campaign website featured an image of an unidentified African-American woman while claiming an endorsement from Democratic Texas Rep.
Jasmine Crockett.
Kim Varet, a former art dealer now vying for a congressional seat, has been known to direct racially-charged criticisms towards Republicans in her bid to unseat California Rep. Young Kim.
As reported by Business Insider, it was discovered that Kim Varet's campaign website had used a photograph of an African-American woman, who was not Representative Crockett, to underscore the purported endorsement. The campaign has since removed the endorsement from its online platform.
Christian Martinez, a spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC), expressed his disapproval on social media, stating, "Racist. Arrogant. Totally out of touch. Good thing @estherkimvarets hate-filled, bigoted self isnt getting anywhere near Congress."
Kim Varet, the daughter of Korean immigrants, has been noted for her derogatory remarks towards her opponent, whom she has referred to as a "Judas" to the Korean-American community and has ridiculed for her accent. The incumbent Republican, Young Kim, was born in South Korea and speaks English as her second language.
In response to the backlash for her offensive comments, Kim Varet admitted on Instagram, "I will be the first to admit that as a first time candidate, Im sloppy." She made this statement after facing criticism for labeling the Republican incumbent a "power-hungry Korean-born immigrant" and mocking her English.
While Crockett did express admiration for Kim Varet's campaign in a May social media post, it remains unclear whether she formally endorsed the California candidate. In her post, Crockett wrote, "People are scared, frustrated, & downright mad about all that is being taken away from them, while some people are just rolling around golfing. People are struggling to afford the basics and others are getting additional jets people then wonder what can they do! The answer is vote for REAL representation like @estherkimvaret! Show her some love & give her a follow!"
Despite repeated attempts, a spokesperson for Crockett did not respond to inquiries regarding the alleged endorsement before publication.
In the race to unseat Young Kim, Kim Varet is competing in a packed Democratic primary. She closed the third fundraising quarter with over $1.2 million, while Kim has more than $4.7 million in cash on hand. However, Kim Varet's campaign has been complicated by California Democratic Governor Gavin Newsoms gerrymandering efforts.
The approval of Proposition 50 in November has bolstered Young Kim's Orange County district with increased Republican support, aiming to create more Democratic-majority districts in the area. Republican California Rep. Ken Calvert, whose district was dissolved by Prop 50, is mounting a primary challenge against Kim in what is anticipated to be a fierce contest in the GOP-leaning district between the two incumbents.
The unfolding events in this race underscore the complexities and challenges of political campaigns, where authenticity and credibility are paramount. As the race progresses, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the candidates and their respective campaigns.
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