.png)
Democrat Tammy Kim faces allegations of falsifying residency to run for District 5 seat.
Democrat Tammy Kim, a prominent contender for Irvine’s District 5 City Council special election, is under fire for allegedly fabricating her residency in the district. A formal objection to her candidacy has been filed, asserting that Kim, a long-time resident of District 3, is attempting to “game the system” to qualify for the race.
The allegations, supported by a detailed investigation, accuse Kim of falsely claiming to live in a District 5 residence tied to a board member of her nonprofit. The evidence includes surveillance showing Kim primarily residing at her District 3 home, voting in District 5 under a questionable address during the November 2024 election, and submitting her candidacy papers from the same contested address.
Attorneys representing District 5 voter Ron Scolesdang argue that Kim’s actions constitute a blatant violation of California election laws. According to the letter sent to Irvine City Clerk Carl Petersen, “Kim has now been caught red-handed.” The attorneys cite California Election Code provisions requiring candidates to reside in the districts they aim to represent, supported by legal precedents emphasizing the need for both physical presence and intent to remain in the district.
Investigators observed Kim frequently at her long-time District 3 address, loading groceries and engaging in daily activities, while her supposed District 5 residence showed no signs of occupancy by her. In fact, the District 5 property’s parking area was found to be used by its actual occupants, who confirmed no affiliation with Kim. The objection also highlighted Kim’s alleged voter fraud in the 2024 general election, stating she cast a ballot from the disputed address in District 5 despite evidence proving she lived in District 3. Filing false candidacy papers and voter registration forms are criminal offenses under California law, punishable by fines and potential imprisonment. The investigation uncovered a consistent pattern of misrepresentation, including a last-minute re-submission of her nomination papers just days before the filing deadline, which critics argue is an acknowledgment of her deception.
The letter to the city clerk demands that Kim’s candidacy be rejected, calling her actions an affront to the integrity of local democracy. “This gaming of the system is illegal and specifically prohibited under the relevant case law and statutes,” the letter states. The attorneys warn that if her candidacy is accepted, they will pursue legal action to enforce California’s election laws. This unfolding controversy has cast a shadow over Kim’s campaign, raising serious questions about her integrity and commitment to serving the public. Meanwhile, the city clerk and Orange County District Attorney’s office are under pressure to investigate and act decisively.
Comentarios