Asian American Leaders Endorse Dem State Rep Candidate Daniel Biss over GOP Opponent Hamilton Chang

Democrat Daniel Biss wins endorsement from local Asian American leaders over GOP opponent Hamilton Chang.

(Chicago, IL) — June 8, 2010. More than 25 leaders of the Asian Pacific American community of Chicago’s northern suburbs last week endorsed Daniel Biss, Democratic candidate for 17th District State Representative, over GOP opponent Hamilton Chang.

At the press conference held at Biss’ Skokie campaign office, Jae Choi Kim, a Korean-American from Wilmette and local leader said, “Often we are an afterthought for politicians, yet Asian Americans make up over 13% of the 17th District. Daniel consistently seeks our input before he forms opinions about issues that are important to our community.”

In the 2008 election, Biss, 33, fell short in his first race against State Rep. Beth Coulson (R-Glenview) garnering almost 49% of the vote against the popular incumbent. Coulson did not seek re-election to her House seat.

“Daniel will be a leader who supports the Asian Community,” said Jerry Clarito, Vice President of the Skokie Park District and leader in the Filipino community.

“We know we will be able to bring him our issues and suggestions when he is our State Representative and that he will truly listen to us.”

Pramod Shah, the first-ever Asian American Trustee of Skokie said, “We have in Daniel a fine person who will work to ensure we have a fair opportunity to have a voice that represents our growing population in Illinois.”

“I am honored and humbled to, again, earn the endorsement of these community leaders whom I respect so much,” said Biss. “The community deserves to be a partner in the making of decisions that effect it, and I pledge to always be your partner and your voice in Springfield.”

Biss is one of the bright spots for Illinois Democrats this year. Informed observers expect the bright, hard-working Evanston resident to add Coulson’s seat to the Democrat’s column in November.