A congressional campaign in California stumbled into a significant misstep, inadvertently showcasing an incorrect image alongside an endorsement from U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett. The campaign website for Democratic candidate Esther Kim Varet initially featured a photograph of a woman other than the Texas Democrat, leading to immediate criticism.
The error was swiftly corrected after inquiries from media outlets, with the incorrect image removed from Varet’s website. However, the damage was already done, sparking accusations of insensitivity and a lack of attention to detail within the campaign.
Political opponents were quick to capitalize on the mistake. A spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee labeled the incident as “racist, arrogant, and totally out of touch,” fueling the narrative of a flawed campaign.
Esther Kim Varet, a gallery owner and first-time political candidate, is challenging incumbent Republican Representative Young Kim for California’s 40th Congressional District. The district encompasses portions of Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, representing a diverse electorate.
The controversy extends beyond the misattributed image. Varet, the daughter of Korean immigrants, previously ignited debate with a social media post referring to Representative Kim, who was born in South Korea, as an “ESL puppet” while criticizing former immigration policies.
Representative Kim responded with a powerful statement, embracing her heritage and accent, and affirming her commitment to the American dream. She highlighted the contributions of Korean Americans and immigrants to the nation’s fabric.
This isn’t the first time Varet’s campaign rhetoric has drawn fire. The NRCC previously labeled her “unhinged” for criticizing Representative Kim’s English proficiency and alleged she made personal attacks questioning the Latino identity of a Republican spokesperson.
The race for the 40th District is further complicated by a Republican primary challenge to Representative Kim from fellow Congressman Ken Calvert. Both are vying for the seat in a newly reconfigured district.
The district’s boundaries were redrawn following a statewide redistricting measure aimed at creating more Democratic-leaning congressional seats. This change was a direct response to map adjustments in Texas designed to favor Republican candidates.
The unfolding situation underscores the intense scrutiny faced by candidates and the critical importance of accuracy and sensitivity in political campaigning, particularly in diverse districts.
