Steven Choi

Steven Choi is a Korean American politician who has served in various capacities within local and state government in California. A member of the Republican Party, he was a member of the California State Assembly, representing the 68th Assembly District from 2016 to 2022. Choi has a notable history of public service, including his tenure as Mayor of Irvine and as a member of the Irvine City Council. His career reflects a commitment to education, local governance, and community engagement.

Early life and career

Steven Choi was born on January 15, 1944, in Naju, located in the Jeollanam-do province of South Korea, which was then under Japanese rule. He pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Kyung Hee University in 1966. Following his graduation, Choi moved to the United States in August 1968 to serve as a language instructor for the Peace Corps, a program administered by the U.S. Department of State aimed at fostering international understanding and cooperation.

Choi continued his academic pursuits in the U.S., obtaining a master's degree in library science from Louisiana State University in 1971. He further advanced his education by earning a Ph.D. in library and information science from the University of Pittsburgh in 1976. His academic background laid the foundation for a career in education, during which he taught at several institutions, including the University of Southern California, the University of California, Irvine, and California State University, Los Angeles, among others. Choi also contributed to the academic community as the founder and director of Dr. Choi's Academy, a tutoring and academic enrichment center.

Legislative service

Choi's political career began in local government, where he first made an impact as a member of the Irvine Unified School District Board of Education, having been elected in 1998 and subsequently reelected in 2002. His election to the Irvine City Council in 2004 marked a significant milestone, as he became the first Asian American to be elected to a four-year term on the council. During his time on the council, he worked alongside fellow council member Sukhee Kang, who was elected to a two-year term on the same day, marking a historic moment for Asian American representation in Irvine.

Choi served on the Irvine City Council until 2012, when he successfully ran for the position of Mayor of Irvine, defeating an incumbent councilman. He was reelected as mayor in 2014. His tenure as mayor coincided with a period of significant local governance, during which he was involved in various initiatives, including negotiations for sister city relationships. Notably, he opposed the One-China principle during discussions with Shanghai's Xuhui government, advocating for Irvine's existing relationship with Taoyuan, Taiwan.

In addition to his role as mayor, Choi held several leadership positions within local committees and boards. He served as Chairman of the Orange County Public Library Advisory Board, which included representatives from 27 cities in Orange County. He also chaired the Irvine Library Advisory Committee and was a member of the Orange County Great Park Corporation Board, where he advocated for the establishment of a library within the Great Park. His involvement extended to various other boards and committees, including the Irvine Redevelopment Agency and the Orange County Sanitation District Board.

Choi's political aspirations led him to seek election to the California State Assembly in 2010; however, he was unsuccessful in the Republican primary. In 2016, he made another attempt and won election to the California State Assembly, succeeding Donald P. Wagner, who had vacated the seat to become mayor of Irvine. Choi's victory in the primary and subsequent general election solidified his position as a state legislator.

Policy focus and district

During his time in the California State Assembly, Choi represented the 68th Assembly District, which encompasses parts of Orange County. His legislative focus included issues pertinent to his constituents, reflecting the interests and needs of the community he served. As a Republican, he aligned with party principles while addressing local concerns, particularly those related to education, public safety, and community development.

Choi's experience in local government and education informed his legislative priorities. His background as an educator and school board member contributed to his advocacy for educational initiatives, aiming to enhance the quality of education within his district. Additionally, his work on various city councils and committees provided him with insights into urban development and infrastructure, which he sought to address through his legislative efforts.

After completing his term in the California State Assembly in 2022, Choi transitioned to the California State Senate, where he continues to serve the interests of his constituents. His ongoing commitment to public service reflects a dedication to the communities of Orange County and the broader goals of the California state government.

Choi resides in Irvine with his wife, Janie, and their two children, both of whom attended public schools in the Irvine Unified School District. His family life and professional background have shaped his approach to governance, emphasizing the importance of education and community engagement in his political career.