Congressman Andy Kim, a Democrat from New Jersey, was accused by Trump delegate Mike Crispi of wearing a tie that resembled the North Korean flag during a Senate debate. Kim, who is Asian American, explained that he wore the tie because he felt it matched his blue suit, and dismissed the accusation as a conspiracy theory. Crispi posted a video on social media questioning Kim’s loyalty and policies, labeling them as “communist.” Kim, in response, called the attack a form of xenophobia and urged his opponent and other GOP leaders to condemn it.
Kim also highlighted other racist attacks on Asian American candidates, including vandalism incidents against Dave Min, a Democratic congressional candidate in California. Kim expressed his pride in potentially becoming the first Korean American senator after 120 years of Koreans in America, but also spoke of his desire for a day when his love for the country is not questioned. Kim’s opponent, Curtis Bashaw, condemned Crispi’s accusation and called Kim a good man and patriotic American despite their policy disagreements.
Representative Ted Lieu of California also criticized Crispi’s accusation, calling it racist. Kim emphasized the need for unity and respect in political discourse, emphasizing that baseless accusations based on background or appearance have no place in society.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com