The Asian American Democratic Action Committee (AADAC) announced its creation at a news conference held by Michael Nussbaum, associate publisher of the Queens Tribune, chosen as the first chairman of the committee, held on October 14.

"Asian candidates who have dreamt of advancing in the political arena cannot easily find direct local support and funding for elections and campaigns. This Committee is dedicated to becoming a focal point for fundraising and contributions, as well as financial planning for Asian candidates in New York. We will directly aid the current Asian candidates for the Democratic Party, and expect the Committee to grow in the future," said Nussbaum.

After Korean-American candidate for the City Council Kevin Kim won the Democratic vote for Queen's District 19 in Bayside and was joined in the primary by other local Asian Democrats, the Committee felt the time was right in the election season to step into the public spotlight and announce itself to the City.

The press conference was attended by both Kevin Kim and New York State Assemblywoman Grace Meng, representing District 22. Meng noted, "The Committee's activities may seem new to the Asian community, but other ethnic groups have long had such support. Our Committee should be a platform from which to deliver the various issues in local Asian communities to American mainstream society." She expressed her enthusiasm about the Committee and predicted great outcomes from its work.

"The election must transmit a correct message to voters, since election results speak for the voters themselves. We need secure funding for candidates who cannot hope to run without firm financial backing. With the committee concentrating on the collection and distribution of raised funds, we believe that many new Asian candidates will emerge onto the political scene in New York City. This committee can be crucial for widening the Asian political spectrum in this city," opined Kim.

Meanwhile, the current Asian-American politicians in the city are politicians encouraged with the recognition and strong support from the Democratic Party.

"This year especially," observed Nussbaum, "many Asian candidates, including Koreans, have run in New York City elections, an indication that more and more Asian candidates are getting involved in politics. Our Committee will help them advance at all levels of the political spectrum – City Council, State Assembly, State government, National Assembly – and promote the importance of voting to local Asian communities. So we ask Asian residents to pay closer attention to our activities and to get involved. "

The Asian American Democratic Action Committee plans to hold a formal launch at a gala dinner open to the public, on Oct. 26, at the Mudan Guest Hall in Queens. Special guests will include Kevin Kim. Chinese celebrities will perform at the $500-a-plate dinner fundraiser. Since AADAC is registered in New York State as a non-profit, donations are tax-exempt.