Michelle Steel

Michelle Steel is an American politician who served as a U.S. Representative for California's 45th congressional district from 2023 until 2025, having previously represented the 48th congressional district from 2021 to 2023. A member of the Republican Party, Steel has been involved in various levels of government, including serving on the Orange County Board of Supervisors and the California State Board of Equalization. She is recognized as one of the first Korean-American women to serve in Congress, alongside fellow representatives Young Kim and Marilyn Strickland. Steel's political career has been marked by her conservative stance on various issues, including opposition to COVID-19 mask mandates and her alignment with the policies of former President Donald Trump.

Early life and career

Michelle Eunjoo Steel was born on June 21, 1955, in Seoul, South Korea. Her family background includes a father who was born in Shanghai to Korean expatriate parents. Steel's education spanned multiple countries, as she attended schools in South Korea, Japan, and the United States. She earned a bachelor's degree in business from Pepperdine University and later obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Southern California. Proficient in Korean, Japanese, and English, Steel's multicultural upbringing and educational background have influenced her political perspectives and engagement.

Before entering elected office, Steel was active in Republican Party politics and served on various commissions during the administration of President George W. Bush. Her involvement in politics began to take shape as she engaged with community issues and Republican initiatives, laying the groundwork for her future electoral campaigns.

House tenure

Steel's congressional career began when she ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in California's 48th congressional district in 2020. In the primary election, she garnered a significant portion of the vote, advancing to the general election where she defeated incumbent Democrat Harley Rouda. Her campaign focused on several conservative issues, including opposition to COVID-19 mask mandates, abortion, same-sex marriage, and immigration reform. Steel's alignment with President Trump and her fundraising efforts contributed to her electoral success.

In December 2021, following redistricting, Steel announced her candidacy for California's 45th congressional district. She received endorsements from prominent Republican figures and organizations, which bolstered her campaign. In the general election held on November 8, 2022, Steel successfully defeated Democratic nominee Jay Chen, continuing her tenure in Congress.

Steel's time in the House was characterized by her participation in the Freedom Force, a group of Republican freshmen aimed at countering the influence of the Democratic group known as The Squad. During her first year in office, she contracted COVID-19 but experienced only mild symptoms. This personal experience led her to advocate for the reopening of schools and businesses, reflecting her broader views on pandemic management.

In 2024, Steel sought re-election in the 45th district. Her campaign strategy included controversial tactics, such as characterizing her Democratic opponent Derek Tran as a communist sympathizer. Despite her efforts, Steel was defeated in the general election held on November 5, 2024.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout her congressional tenure, Steel's legislative focus aligned with her conservative values. She was known for her opposition to various Democratic initiatives and policies, particularly those related to public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Steel did not vote on the certification of Joe Biden's Electoral College victory and opposed the second impeachment of Trump, reflecting her alignment with the former president's agenda.

In addition to her legislative activities, Steel served on House committees that addressed issues pertinent to her constituents and the broader national landscape. Her role on the Whip Team under House Minority Whip Steve Scalise during the 117th Congress positioned her within the Republican leadership structure, allowing her to influence party strategy and legislative priorities.

Steel's political career has also included significant roles at the state level prior to her congressional service. She was elected to the California State Board of Equalization in 2006, where she became the highest-ranking Korean American officeholder in the country and California's highest-ranking Republican woman. Her tenure on the Board allowed her to represent a diverse constituency across multiple counties.

Following her time on the Board of Equalization, Steel was elected to the Orange County Board of Supervisors in 2014. During her time on the Board, she took on leadership roles, including serving as chair in 2017 and 2020. Her tenure was marked by her opposition to mandatory face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic and her involvement in various local initiatives.

Steel's political journey reflects her commitment to conservative principles and her active engagement in both local and national politics. Her experience and background have positioned her as a notable figure within the Republican Party, particularly as one of the first Korean-American women to serve in Congress. After her congressional tenure, Steel was nominated to be the next U.S. Ambassador to South Korea, indicating her continued involvement in public service and international relations.