Less than 10 days before the California primary elections, a significant number of seats from the state to the local level will see a reshuffling. Elected officials and community members are urging voters to exercise their voting rights, actively participate, and choose wisely.
The head of the Los Angeles County Volunteer Organization TACF, Guan Yixiu, stated that since coming to the United States, he has participated in several elections and has seen some officials forget their campaign promises once in office due to party restrictions. Therefore, voters not only need to cast their ballots but also select the right candidates.
For example, public safety is a critical issue that concerns everyone in the community, and city council members play a pivotal role in this process. Diamond Bar, where many Chinese residents live, has consistently made it onto the list of “safe cities.” Therefore, Guan Yixiu strongly supports the re-election of Dr. Chia-Yu Teng, the current city council member in Diamond Bar.
Dr. Teng holds dual doctoral degrees, has been practicing medicine in the San Gabriel Valley for over thirty years, and has served as a Diamond Bar city council member since 2022. He is seeking re-election in the November elections, hoping to continue serving the public. His wife, Minnie Li, is also involved in public service, currently serving as a member of the Walnut Valley Water District Board and seeking re-election.
At an event last Thursday (21st), Dr. Teng shared his experiences as a city council member. Hundreds of representatives from the political, educational, business, and community sectors attended the event to show their support.
Dr. Teng mentioned a conversation he had with the former Diamond Bar Mayor, also from Taiwan, Zhang Wenbin, when he first ran for city council four years ago. He expressed his agreement with Zhang Wenbin’s view: “This community, this society, this great country has given us so much, we must run for office with pure motives, without any personal agenda.”
Dr. Teng stated that he always keeps this in mind. Over the past four years, he has juggled two jobs, striving to be a good doctor and serve the community. “I am not a workaholic; I just love working.” He believes that aside from having a fulfilling family life, the greatest reward in life is being able to dedicate oneself to valuable work.
Dr. Teng also mentioned that in his position as a city council member, he has gained wisdom and experience, interacted with more people, listened to the community’s voices, and forged deep connections with residents. “I know what they want, and I understand our shared vision.” He hopes to continue making the city a place where people can live and work happily in the next four years.
During her speech, Minnie Li thanked the support of community organizations. She oversees several cities in the Walnut Water District. Her primary goal is to work with the water district team to rigorously manage the budget, maintain infrastructure, and ensure that residents always have access to quality water when they turn on the tap. She frequently participates in community service activities and contributes donations.
The couple’s re-election campaign has garnered support from both Republican and Democratic party members.
Kyle Miller, the representative appointed by Democratic State Senator Bob Archuleta from California’s 30th District, expressed gratitude to the Teng couple for seeking re-election to continue serving the public.
On the evening of the event, the Walnut Valley Unified School District Board Chair Yi “Tony” Torng, board members Cynthia M. Ruiz and Helen M. Hall, who are running for re-election, were present to show their support for the Teng couple.
The new Diamond Bar City Council members, Walnut Valley Water District Board members, and Walnut Valley Unified School District board members will be decided directly by voters on the election day of November 3rd this year. ◇