Derek Tran

Derek Tran is an American lawyer and politician currently serving as the U.S. Representative for California's 45th congressional district. A member of the Democratic Party, he has held this position since 2025, making him the third Vietnamese American elected to Congress and the first to represent California. Tran's background as the son of Vietnamese refugees and his experiences in the military and legal fields have shaped his political career and legislative focus.

Early life and career

Derek Tran was born on December 22, 1980, in Los Angeles County, California. He grew up in the San Gabriel Valley, where he was raised by parents who had fled Vietnam as refugees. His father escaped Vietnam in 1975 following the fall of Saigon, enduring a perilous journey that included the tragic loss of his first wife and children when their boat capsized. After returning to Vietnam, Tran's father met Tran's mother, and together they lived in a refugee camp for approximately one year before immigrating to the United States. They eventually established a corner store, which served as a foundation for their family's new life in America.

Tran's upbringing was marked by economic challenges, as his family relied on government assistance programs such as SNAP, WIC, and Section 8 housing. These experiences motivated him to enlist in the United States Army upon turning 18, a decision he made without informing his family or friends. He served in the U.S. Army Reserve for eight years, participating in Operations Noble Eagle and Enduring Freedom before receiving an honorable discharge.

Following his military service, Tran pursued higher education. He attended Bentley University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree, and later graduated with a Juris Doctor from Glendale University College of Law. After completing his education, he began his legal career in 2014. In 2020, he founded his own law firm, the Tran Firm, located in Huntington Beach, California. The firm specialized in personal injury and employment law but was later acquired by Feher Law in 2023.

In addition to his legal practice, Tran has been active in his community. He served on the board of the Consumer Attorneys Association of America and was appointed as a traffic commissioner for the city of Orange. Alongside his wife, he co-owns a pharmacy in Anaheim, further demonstrating his commitment to serving the local community.

House tenure

Derek Tran announced his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives in late 2023, entering the all-party "top two" primary for California's 45th congressional district. This district, characterized as a competitive battleground, encompasses parts of Los Angeles and Orange counties, including areas with significant Vietnamese and Asian American populations. Tran's campaign was notable for its emphasis on his Vietnamese American identity, which resonated with many constituents in the district.

During the primary election in March 2024, Tran finished second, securing a spot in the general election against the incumbent Republican representative, Michelle Steel. The race was highly competitive, with both candidates vying for the support of the district's diverse communities. Tran's campaign was marked by significant fundraising efforts, which distinguished him from other Democratic candidates who struggled to garner financial backing.

The campaign featured a series of contentious exchanges between Tran and Steel, particularly regarding their respective connections to the Vietnamese community. Tran's identity as a son of Vietnamese immigrants was central to his narrative, while Steel faced scrutiny over her claims of cultural understanding. The candidates engaged in a heated debate over their backgrounds, with Tran challenging Steel's assertions about her own identity and experiences.

Throughout the campaign, both candidates exchanged accusations, which included allegations of communist sympathies and personal attacks. Tran accused Steel's husband of unethical dealings with the Chinese Communist Party, raising questions about her trustworthiness in political office. In turn, Steel's campaign targeted Tran's past legal work, suggesting that it was problematic given the nature of some of his clients' employment disputes.

The election drew national attention due to its competitiveness and the significant demographic factors at play. The district's population was reported to be approximately 39% Asian, and both candidates sought to appeal to this demographic through their campaign strategies. Tran's Vietnamese heritage was a focal point of his campaign, while Steel attempted to position herself as a candidate with a deeper understanding of the community.

Legislative focus and committees

Since taking office in January 2025, Derek Tran has been involved in various legislative initiatives and committee assignments. His background as a lawyer and his experiences as a member of a refugee family have influenced his legislative priorities, particularly in areas related to immigration, social services, and community support.

Tran's focus on issues affecting the Asian American community, particularly those related to immigration and social justice, reflects his personal history and the needs of his constituents. He has expressed a commitment to advocating for policies that support immigrant families and promote equitable access to resources and opportunities.

In addition to his focus on immigration, Tran has also been involved in discussions surrounding healthcare, education, and economic development. His experience as a business owner and attorney provides him with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by small businesses and the legal system, which he seeks to address through his legislative work.

As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Tran's committee assignments and legislative actions will continue to shape his contributions to Congress and the communities he represents. His tenure is characterized by a commitment to serving the diverse needs of his constituents while drawing on his personal and professional experiences to inform his policy positions.