ASPIRE PAC Condemns Michelle Steel’s and NRCC’s Shameful Attacks on Lt. Commander Jay Chen

WASHINGTON, DC – ASPIRE PAC released the following statement strongly condemning the disgusting attacks by both the Michelle Steel campaign and national Republicans against Jay Chen, a Lieutenant Commander and intelligence officer in the U.S. Naval Reserves and the son of Taiwanese immigrants. Both national press and in-language AAPI outlets have already called out their attacks as red-baiting, inappropriate, and doctored. 

“Jay Chen swore an oath to support and defend the U.S. Constitution when he enlisted to serve our country. He is a decorated Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Naval Reserves and honorably served our country in the Middle East against ISIS as a part of Operation Inherent Resolve. It is absolutely shameful that Michelle Steel and national Republicans would dare to question his military service and dedication to our country. Moreover, it’s disappointing that Steel and Republican leaders would exploit fear and stoke tension for political gain, especially at a time when our AAPI communities are still facing anti-Asian hate. Michelle Steel and the NRCC should be ashamed.” 

Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders Rising & Empowering Political Action Committee (ASPIRE PAC) is the political arm of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Members of Congress. ASPIRE PAC is committed to supporting candidates of AAPI descent and incumbents who represent large communities of AAPI voters. According to the 2020 census, the AAPI community is the fastest-growing demographic in the country. In addition, in 2020 the AAPI community increased its voter turnout more than any other community of color. ASPIRE PAC is chaired by Congresswoman Grace Meng. There are currently 21 AAPI Members of Congress, including two U.S. Senators.

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