WASHINGTON, DC — The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) extends congratulations to President-elect Donald Trump on his election victory and reaffirms its commitment to empowering the Filipino American and broader Asian American communities. As a nonpartisan organization, NaFFAA remains dedicated to fostering civic engagement and expanding representation across all levels of government, amplifying the voice and influence of Filipino Americans in the democratic process.
The 2024 election underscored the significant impact of Filipino American voters, with over 2.14 million Filipino Americans casting their votes across the nation, especially in key battleground states. This historic turnout reflects the community’s dedication to participating in the democratic process. Furthermore, this election cycle saw historic wins for Filipino American leaders across the United States, each advancing a shared vision for a more inclusive nation.
“This election year highlights the importance of civic engagement, and we are proud of how Filipino Americans have participated,” stated NaFFAA National President Mariela Fletcher. “Our mission is to empower every Filipino American, encouraging informed voting and active involvement in shaping our nation’s future. We look forward to engaging in discussions with the administration to advocate for policies that benefit our communities and align with our shared values.”
NaFFAA National Chair Brendan Flores emphasized the significance of this election: “Calling this election consequential is an understatement. Many of us feel the weight of this moment, but I hope that, regardless of the outcome, we can come together as Americans. The unity and strength within our community demonstrate our shared heritage and commitment to building a brighter future. NaFFAA will continue to champion efforts to ensure that our voices are heard.”
The election saw groundbreaking wins for Filipino American leaders across the nation, including:
First-Time Wins:
- Christopher Cabaldon – First Filipino American elected to the California State Senate, District 3, and former Mayor of West Sacramento.
- Jessica Caloza – First Filipina American elected to the California State Assembly, representing District 52.
- Angelito Tenorio – First Filipino American elected to Wisconsin’s State Assembly, District 14.
- Ysabel Jurado – First Filipino American elected to the Los Angeles City Council, District 14.
- Ryyn Schumacher – First and only Filipino American, and first openly gay person of color elected to San Buenaventura City Council, CA.
- Tatiana Yokoyama Bui – Elected to the ABC Unified School District Board of Trustees, Area 4.
Re-Election Wins:
- U.S. Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-3) – The only Member of Congress of Filipino ancestry, serving in Congress for 32 years.
- Genevieve Mina – Re-elected Alaska State Representative, District 19, and the first and only Filipino American in the Alaska Legislature.
- Junelle Cavero Harnal – First Filipina American in the Arizona State Legislature, re-elected to District 11.
- Trish La Chica – First Filipino-born American in Hawaii’s House of Representatives, re-elected for District 37.
- Steven Raga – New York State Assemblymember for District 30, the first and only Filipino American in this position.
- Maria Cervania – North Carolina State Representative for District 41, the first and only Filipino American in the state legislature and one of the first two Asian American women elected to this body.
- Justin Jones – Tennessee State Representative for District 52, the first and only Filipino American in the Tennessee Legislature.
- Todd Gloria – Mayor of San Diego, CA, the first Filipino American, first person of color, and first openly LGBTQ+ individual in this role.
- Juslyn Manalo – Re-elected to Daly City Council, CA, previously serving as Mayor, the first Filipina American in this role.
- Corey Calaycay – Claremont Mayor Pro Tem, District 1, CA, serving 19 years and the first Filipino American Mayor of Claremont.
- Alexander Walker-Griffin – Elected to Hercules City Council, CA, as the youngest council member in the city’s history.
- Nikki Villavicencio – Maplewood City Council Member, MN, the first disabled Filipinx council member.
- Emily Ann Ramos – First Filipino American on Mountain View City Council, CA, a strong advocate for housing and tenant protections.
- Mark Nagales – Re-elected to South San Francisco City Council, CA, and former Mayor of South San Francisco.
NaFFAA is inspired by the achievements of these leaders and remains steadfast in its mission to support Filipino Americans and increase representation across government.
NaFFAA President-elect Ryan Namata emphasized, “Our votes are powerful, our voices matter, and our unity is our strength. Together, let’s advocate for our rights, promote our heritage, and inspire future generations to lead with conviction and courage.”
NaFFAA will continue to support initiatives that empower Filipino Americans and promote a vision of inclusivity and equity. As President-elect Trump transitions into office, we invite Filipino Americans to stay engaged, informed, and united in shaping our community and our nation.
Our NaFFAA team is actively compiling the latest list of Filipino American officials elected in the 2024 United States elections. If you are aware of additional Filipino Americans elected this cycle, please reach out to mark.eyo@naffaa.org.
