Lien Choi
Lien Choi (independent) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Illinois' 7th Congressional District. He lost as a write-in in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Biography
Lien Choi studied at Wilbur Wright Community College and the Illinois Institute of Technology. His career experience includes working in construction and as a director at Hope House Homeless Shelter and Transitional Housing.[1]
Elections
2024
See also: Illinois' 7th Congressional District election, 2024
Illinois' 7th Congressional District election, 2024 (March 19 Republican primary)
Illinois' 7th Congressional District election, 2024 (March 19 Democratic primary)
General election
General election for U.S. House Illinois District 7
Incumbent Danny K. Davis defeated Chad Koppie, Lien Choi, and Lowell Seida in the general election for U.S. House Illinois District 7 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Danny K. Davis (D) | 83.3 | 222,408 |
 | Chad Koppie (R) | 16.7 | 44,598 | |
 | Lien Choi (Independent) (Write-in) | 0.0 | 133 | |
 | Lowell Seida (Independent) (Write-in) | 0.0 | 13 | |
| Total votes: 267,152 | |||
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Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for U.S. House Illinois District 7
Incumbent Danny K. Davis defeated Melissa Conyears-Ervin, Kina Collins, Nikhil Bhatia, and Kouri Marshall in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Illinois District 7 on March 19, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Danny K. Davis | 52.4 | 42,248 |
 | Melissa Conyears-Ervin | 21.3 | 17,154 | |
 | Kina Collins | 18.9 | 15,188 | |
 | Nikhil Bhatia | 4.7 | 3,808 | |
 | Kouri Marshall | 2.7 | 2,156 | |
| Total votes: 80,554 | |||
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
- Rhonda Sherrod (D)
- Kip Knutson (D)
Republican primary election
Republican primary for U.S. House Illinois District 7
Chad Koppie advanced from the Republican primary for U.S. House Illinois District 7 on March 19, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Chad Koppie | 100.0 | 5,604 |
| Total votes: 5,604 | |||
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Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Choi in this election.
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Lien Choi did not complete Ballotpedia's 2024 Candidate Connection survey.
Campaign website
Choi’s campaign website stated the following:
| “ |
After-Work Program for Adults A simple program like this will serve to help take the burden off working families, so they can spend more quality time with their families, as well as to have the luxury to improve their own lives in any number of ways. This will also have the downstream effect of alleviating social burdens from schools/teachers as well as the police, public health issues, etc. An innovative approach to after-school programs would include one where parents are invited to extend their stay after picking up their children, leaving the doors open for a few extra hours. This initiative allows parents to engage in a variety of activities to enrich their lives, such as organizing, exercising, league games, reading, taking a number of lifestyle and academic courses, or simply unwind with a nap, a movie, or hydromassage. Meanwhile, children can remain engaged and productive continue their activities, complete homework, receive tutoring, or also take a break from the day. Spend time with family and friends in a safe and nurturing environment. Additionally, convenient laundry services and healthy family meal options will be provided, making it easier for families to manage their busy lives. Parents or children can even simply take meals home. This thoughtful setup fosters a supportive community where both parents and children can thrive. A program designed to support working families can significantly ease their daily burdens, allowing them to dedicate more quality time to their loved ones. By alleviating the stresses associated with balancing work and family life, such initiatives empower individuals to focus on personal growth and well-being. Furthermore, this relief can have a positive ripple effect on society as a whole, reducing the pressures faced by schools, teachers, law enforcement, and public health systems. When families thrive, communities become stronger, fostering a more supportive environment that benefits everyone. In essence, such a program not only enhances family life but also contributes to the overall health of society, creating a win-win situation for individuals and the community alike. Environmental Justice Just starting with the very basics of caring for human life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y8cAhsr5j6U (Won't let me put it on my playlist.) My playlist on Environmental Justice https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi_mjw2ZYSi3a1krZ7DbxBIAPscK0yIcQ Land Use Initiative The blight of neglected lots around us is disheartening, highlighting a pressing need for change in our community. I wholeheartedly support a citizen initiative that urges the city to repurpose unused land for environmental restoration. Transforming these spaces into parks or native and/or productive gardens can significantly enhance the quality of life for residents. By reclaiming these areas, we not only beautify our neighborhoods but also promote healthier living environments. It is crucial to seek support from local organizations and residents alike, empowering everyone to take part as they please. Global Climate change starts with Environmental and Climate Justice. With the combined land available, even in the 7th, food deserts can become a thing of the past. Ensuring that every community has access to fresh, nutritious food. By harnessing both personal initiative and collective community efforts, we can not only address food insecurity but also foster the creation of healthy jobs right in our neighborhoods. This approach empowers individuals to take charge of their well-being while simultaneously boosting the local economy. This proactive approach encourages local engagement and empowers individuals to take charge of their food security while fostering economic growth and creating healthier environments we all deserve to live in. Food Enforcement Agency (FEA) I would also like to see the creation of a Food Enforcement Agency (FEA) under the Department of Justice. To ensure equity in the food and supplements that we eat, and that quality, healthy food is available to all people. That has equal if not more authority and funding as the DEA. Crime and violence While canvassing the North Lawndale area, a young man recently emotionally expressed to me, “I wish there were more police around when I was younger, then I wouldn’t have to be doing this s***.” Involved in gangs and running an apparent, alleged scam. Running his “hustle.” I was shocked to hear this. This is not a perspective that any media presents. Many community members are expressing their frustration with the ongoing violence that plagues their neighborhoods. They desire a stronger police presence in the hardest affected areas, yet they are wary of the consequences that can come with increased policing, such as the potential for over-policing, violations of civil liberties, and tragic outcomes. The community longs for a police department that collaborates with residents rather than antagonizes them, fostering trust and partnership. People want to feel safe without the fear of abuse or the loss of their rights. A community that is honored as a partner, and not as easy pickins for promotions. The evolving landscape of policing presents a complex challenge for law enforcement officers, who often feel their authority is diminished in a world that scrutinizes their every move through headlines and unappreciated in their efforts to maintain public safety. Despite the dangers and difficulties of their job, officers strive to make a positive impact in their communities, often feeling underappreciated for their efforts. The advent of advanced camera technology serves a dual purpose: it not only holds police accountable but also aids in solving crimes. This duality highlights the need for a modernized approach to policing, one that embraces innovation while addressing the concerns of both officers and the communities they serve. Policing can be changed, modernized and customized from the ground up. Modern and Customized Policing In envisioning a modernized police force, it is crucial to prioritize the safety of officers while ensuring that the use of force is appropriate and proportional to the situation. It makes sense that the safer police officers feel, the more they will patrol, and the less force they will resort to. This approach emphasizes a commitment to community service, fostering trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the communities they serve. By moving away from an increasingly para-militaristic model, the focus can shift towards a more civilian-oriented service that values de-escalation, communication, and proactive engagement. Training programs should be enhanced to equip officers with the skills necessary for conflict resolution and community interaction, ultimately creating a police force that is not only effective in maintaining public safety but also deeply rooted in the principles of respect and service to the community, as a partner and part of the community, not as an outside entity of mere enforcement. I think it is also practical to modernize all the equipment police use to be specifically designed for their needs. Serving to increase their safety, so that they will feel free and safe to patrol all neighborhoods. Also, given more tools to safely subdue their subjects. Modernizing police equipment is crucial for enhancing officers' safety and effectiveness on the job. By tailoring tools and technology to their specific needs, law enforcement can operate more confidently in adverse neighborhoods. Customization of equipment not only makes sense and protects officers but also empowers them to manage situations more safely and efficiently. With the right equipment and mission, police can ensure a greater sense of security for themselves and the communities they serve. This proactive approach enables them to engage with the public more freely, fostering better relationships and trust within the neighborhoods they serve. End of No Knock Warrants In a free and democratic society, we must guard against any semblance of authoritarianism that invades like storm troopers into our homes and lives. Among the many, the tragic case of Breonna Taylor, who was an EMT and dedicated fellow first responder, serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of such unacceptable overreach, particularly when accountability is completely lacking. Her death reflects a grave error that should have prompted serious reflection and change. While there may be justifications for high-stakes operations, the everyday enforcement of such aggressive tactics seems both unnecessary and excessive. As a part of everyday policing, human error is inevitable. Instead of punishing police for obvious inevitable human error, we should focus on dismantling harmful programs that endanger innocent lives. This approach would not only demonstrate a commitment to justice but also honor the principles of accountability and respect for human dignity that underpin our society. It’s a necessary step toward ensuring safety without sacrificing our democratic values. Again, moving away from a para-militaristic approach to policing to a civilian service model. We don't need these never ending wars on American Soil. We just need safety on our streets. Decriminalization even legalization of all drugs and drug sales, with Increased focus on Illegal Gun Trafficking Chicago has the potential to become a true sanctuary city, embracing not only migrants but also marginalized groups that are discriminated upon, neglected, exploited and abused. By extending our support to individuals such as those facing harmful discrimination, homeless, drug addicts, and those struggling with disabilities and/or mental illness, we can create an inclusive environment that fosters compassion. This approach not only reflects the city’s spirit of resilience and diversity but also sets a powerful example for others to follow. We can demonstrate that every life has value. Lessons learned from cities all over the world, with the right preparation, resources and care, we can take care of those that need it the most and give refuge, respite and good 'ol Midwest hospitality to those that need it the most. By investing in programs and services tailored to the needs of these disenfranchised individuals, Chicago can lead the way in showing how to address complex social issues with empathy and efficacy, embodying the true essence of what it means to be a Chicagoan and an American. Let's show them the way. Chicago styles. The decriminalization of all drugs represents a crucial transformation in law enforcement objectives in Chicago, paving the way for significant changes in policing strategies. By shifting the focus from criminalization to public health, this approach addresses non-violent offenses and mental health issues more effectively. Treating addiction as a disease rather than a crime allows for a more compassionate response in-line with the time and science, ensuring that resources are redirected towards rehabilitation facilities and psychosocial services. This not only alleviates the burden on police and prison systems of non-violent criminals, but also fosters a healthier community. Ultimately, prioritizing treatment over punishment can lead to improved outcomes for individuals struggling with addiction, reducing recidivism and enhancing public safety. By embracing this progressive shift, Chicago can set a precedent for other cities seeking to reform their approaches to policing. Again, lessons learned, Chicago must first prepare for this adjustment in order for it to be a successful program like in so many other cities. Decriminalization of Homelessness and poverty Since the Supreme Court has made homelessness a crime, and with housing becoming increasingly inaccessible, we must pass a Universal Basic Income bill along with Universal Healthcare. We should also increase the funding and variety of programs available to the homeless and those living in poverty. People should have the freedom to live as they choose. Especially if there are no other means or if a person is peacefully living out their lives with mental illness, or just by choice, including those living in vehicles. Civil and Human Rights The Black Lives Matter movement has sparked vital conversations about equality and justice, and has served as a powerful platform to amplify the voices and rights of marginalized communities. For me, though we all played our parts here and there, second to the genocide of Native Americans, African American rights, is civil rights in America. They are disproportionately negatively affected in nearly every measure of quality of life everywhere across this country. The state of ghettoization, urban decay and neglect suffered by this community in this city is disgusting. Making this is the best place to start. That is, aside from the Native Americans. I hope to bring the two worlds together through outdoor activity and education for inner-city and at-risk youths in general through my top non-profit initiative. Which has been a passion project of mine for nearly 20 years. Pro-Love – Women's Rights, Child's Rights, Human Rights, Pro-Choice. Women are not part of the discussion when it concerns healthcare for men. It's an issue of the availability of access to proper medical care for women and bodily autonomy [which we should all enjoy as a human right], which has never been an issue for men as it is already very freely given without hesitation or a second thought. Women are a historically oppressed group. The state of women's rights is perhaps the easiest gauge to the health of any democracy. They are half our people for crying out loud. LGBTQAI+ Rights – Hating people over ignorance and bigotry to the point of death has to stop. Just another very small minority of people to pick on and bully. Appealing to the lowest common denominator. And who is next? There will always be a next. It is in their playbook. Fear and hate. The remnants or continuity of the darker side of our history. If you have any doubt, spreading hate and fear is very much alive and well in our society today. Also, again, it is not the role of government to infringe on what a person and their physician(s) feels is medically best for that person. Today it is the trans community. The Bush Administration unapologetically went after the gay and lesbian community. Learning about the challenges faced by transgender individuals has been an enlightening and often heartbreaking experience. It reveals the depths of hate and fear directed at such a small minority, illustrating the painful reality of oppression embedded within our governmental structures. Seeing what people will do out of hate and fear to such a tiny minority of people in this country, was probably the worst part. This systematic bullying, often referred to as oppression, is deeply embedded within our governmental structures. Unfortunately, the same system that should protect its citizens can and has perpetuated harm and trauma instead. Unfortunately, enacting protections for marginalized communities proves to be a far more challenging endeavor than implementing oppressive measures. Homelessness and Poverty
To do good unto others legislatively, in the courts, is for some reason, the toughest thing to do. |
” |
| —Lien Choi’s campaign website (2024)[3] | ||
Campaign finance summary
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See also
2024 Elections
External links
Footnotes
- ↑ Facebook, "Lien Choi: About," accessed October 23, 2024
- ↑ Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
- ↑ Lien Choi’s campaign website, “Plan,” accessed October 23, 2024
