Xavier Becerra: Community wellbeing must come before party politics

Former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra gave his first interview with Korean media after announcing his candidacy for California governor.

In a video interview with the Korea Daily on July 31, Becerra urged voters to elect a leader prepared to tackle the state’s many challenges. He highlighted his extensive experience, including service in the California State Assembly (59th District), U.S. House of Representatives representing districts including Los Angeles Koreatown (30th, 31st, and 34th Districts), four years as California Attorney General, and four years as a U.S. cabinet secretary.

Below is an excerpt from an interview with Xavier Becerra.

-As a former cabinet secretary, how do you view the problems of the current administration?
“Government agencies should provide the most lawful and legitimate services. But today’s federal institutions are committing violations themselves and suppressing citizens. It’s like the government stepping into the ring and hitting people below the belt. Urgent reforms are needed.”

-Some say the Democratic Party is not responding well to these problems. What’s your view?
“I’d rather not frame things by party name. My focus is on building a society where people can live well—where they can live in the homes they built, work near where they live, send their children to school, and where seniors can access quality healthcare. I believe partisan direction should come after that.

-The Department of Health and Human Services is facing staff reductions and Medicaid cuts. What are your thoughts?
“These are man-made disasters, and they will leave long-lasting wounds on many citizens. These shocks are not something we can easily recover from. While Washington may not be able to solve this, in California, if we unite, our neighbors can still go to the hospital, and seniors can continue receiving their prescriptions.

-What policy would you prioritize first if elected governor?
“I will focus on building low-income housing so that every Californian can have a home. I will work to reduce housing costs and insurance rates and remove the barriers that prevent people from owning a home.

-Former Vice President Kamala Harris has withdrawn from the race. Do you have a message for her?
“First, I want to thank former Vice President Harris for her dedication to the nation. Much of what the administration accomplished was made possible thanks to her efforts. I wish her all the best in whatever she does next and hope she continues to contribute to California’s future.”

-What do you think of the other candidates in the race?
“I’ve heard there are some excellent candidates. I am grateful to the first-generation immigrants—including my parents—who provided opportunities to the second and third generations. Personally, I gained inspiration and courage from those people. That’s why I studied and was able to receive a good education. Through that journey, I’ve taken on pharmaceutical companies and stood against old-guard politics. So far, I haven’t seen another candidate whose experience compares to mine.”

-You left the Koreatown district in 2017, but many Korean Americans still remember you.
“I am still deeply grateful for the warm welcome and encouragement I always received from the Korean community. I know the community has grown significantly since and has worked harmoniously with surrounding neighborhoods to enrich California. On a national level, the Korean American community now plays an important role. I’m always happy and proud to be connected to it.”

BY BRIAN CHOI [i.choi@koreadaily.com]