Sam Sim
Sam Sim (Republican Party) is running for election to the Washington House of Representatives to represent District 44-Position 2. He is on the ballot in the general election on November 5, 2024. He advanced from the primary on August 6, 2024.
Sim completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Sam Sim was born in Honolulu, Hawaii. Sim's career experience includes working as a business owner and president. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Washington in 1995.[1]
Sim has been affiliated with the America Korea United Society, Northshore Rotary, Korean Community Service Center, Snohomish County Republican Party, Community Church of Seattle, Snohomish County Chamber, Bothell Kenmore Chamber, Duranno Father School, Korean American Coalition, Seattle Korean Chamber of Commerce, Woodinville Chamber, House Republican Committee, Korean English Baptist Ministers Foundation, City of Bothell Outreach Committee, and City of Bothell Police Outreach Committee.[1]
Elections
2024
See also: Washington House of Representatives elections, 2024
General election
General election for Washington House of Representatives District 44-Position 2
Incumbent April Berg and Sam Sim are running in the general election for Washington House of Representatives District 44-Position 2 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | ||
 | April Berg (D) | |
 | Sam Sim (R)  | |
| ||||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Nonpartisan primary election
Nonpartisan primary for Washington House of Representatives District 44-Position 2
Incumbent April Berg and Sam Sim advanced from the primary for Washington House of Representatives District 44-Position 2 on August 6, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | April Berg (D) | 60.6 | 12,748 |
| ✔ | | Sam Sim (R) | 39.3 | 8,264 |
| Other/Write-in votes | 0.1 | 26 | ||
| Total votes: 21,038 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Campaign finance
Endorsements
To view Sim's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here. To send us an endorsement, click here.
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Sam Sim completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Sim's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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My family immigrated to Honolulu in 1972 when I was less than a year old, seeking a better life. My father, a pastor, instilled in me an unbreakable family bond despite our humble beginnings and growing up for the majority of my younger years, destitute. Having lived in ten states across the U.S., I’ve developed a profound love for people and our country. Experiencing America’s diverse cultures and the beauty of my Korean heritage inspired me to bridge cultural gaps My family roots and interactions with various communities have shown me that we all share the same aspirations for our families. This conviction drives my dedication to championing education as well as equal representation and awareness for all cultures, backgrounds and walks of life. As a candidate, “family first” is at the core of my campaign and values. Families are the bedrock of our society, providing love, support, and stability. As a parent and community member, I prioritize family needs in all endeavors. If elected, I will tirelessly advocate for policies that support families, including quality education, economic opportunities and safety for our citizens. Moreover, as an entrepreneur and small business owner, I have come to realize firsthand the value of being rewarded for ones own shear effort and hard work. Hard and honest work should rewarded in kind. It is with these values and by putting families first, we can build a industrious, cohesive and prosperous community
- Parents' rights in education are essential, ensuring that children's learning experiences reflect their values and needs. As primary caregivers, parents have unique insights into their children's strengths, challenges, and aspirations. Involving parents in educational decision-making creates a collaborative environment that improves student outcomes. It also promotes accountability, responsiveness, and transparency in the education system. Valuing and upholding parents' rights supports a comprehensive approach to education, making sure each child's educational journey is tailored, inclusive, and nurturing for their overall wellbeing, while focusing on the merits of education for education sake
- Lowering and reducing taxes offers significant advantages by boosting economic growth, increasing individuals' disposable income, and encouraging business development as well as entrepreneurship. Reduced tax rates stimulate consumer spending and investment, which in turn drives demand for goods and services. This leads to job creation and higher productivity. For businesses, lower taxes provide more capital for innovation, expansion, and hiring, enhancing their competitiveness. Additionally, lower taxes can attract foreign investment, further strengthening the economy. Ultimately, tax reduction empowers both individuals and businesses, fostering a more dynamic, prosperous economy and enhancing overall quality of life.
- Supporting law enforcement is essential for upholding public safety, order, and the rule of law. Officers play a key role in safeguarding communities, deterring crime, and ensuring justice. By providing them with adequate resources, training, and support, we enable them to perform their duties efficiently and ethically. Backing law enforcement helps create a safer environment where people can live, work, and prosper without fear. Additionally, strong community-police relationships build trust and cooperation, which are vital for addressing societal issues and improving overall quality of life. Supporting law enforcement is an investment in a secure, stable, and just society. We must reverse the course of law enforcement personal dwindling
Parental rights in education, tax reduction, and prudent financial management are essential for a thriving society. Allowing parents
to direct their children's education ensures that learning reflects family values and individual needs, leading to improved
educational outcomes. Lowering taxes boosts economic growth, increases disposable income, and promotes business
development, driving prosperity. Additionally, responsible financial stewardship ensures efficient budget management, optimizing
resources and reducing waste. These principles collectively support a balanced, prosperous community where families can thrive,
economies can expand, and public funds are utilized effectively for the common good. The US Constitution is our guide
I admire my father immensely. During my childhood, we faced significant financial hardships and moved often. Despite these difficulties, he consistently exemplified faith, love, and leadership. He taught me to remain steadfast and faithful during tough times. His unwavering love and commitment to our family instilled in me the importance of support and care for one another. His leadership showcased resilience and the value of hard work. My father's guidance and example have deeply influenced who I am today and continue to inspire me in my political journey. In our relationship, we had both positive and negative memories. However, I believe through this underlying love and prayer through it all, played a significant impact on shaping the person that I am today.
My political philosophy aligns closely with the principles portrayed in the movie "Gandhi," particularly non-violence, justice, and
servant leadership. Like Mahatma Gandhi, I believe true leadership is about serving the people with integrity, compassion, and
dedication to the common good. It is an example of servant leadership. Gandhi exemplified servant leadership by prioritizing the
needs of the people over personal power or gain. He led with humility, selflessness, and a deep commitment to the well-being of
others. I strive to embody these qualities in my political career, focusing on the interests of my constituents. By actively listening to
their concerns, addressing their needs, and working tirelessly to improve their lives, I aim to create a more inclusive and equitable
society.
Next community engagement and empowerment is exemplified. Gandhi believed in empowering individuals and communities to
take control of their destinies, promoting self-reliance and active participation in the fight for rights. Similarly, my political
philosophy emphasizes community engagement and empowerment. I seek to create an environment where citizens feel heard,
valued, and empowered to contribute to the democratic process. By fostering strong community connections and encouraging
civic participation, we can collectively address challenges and drive meaningful change.
On the matter of ethical governance, this is exemplified by Ghandi as well. Gandhi's unwavering commitment to ethical principles
and moral integrity was central to his leadership. He believed leaders should be transparent, accountable, and guided by a strong
ethical compass. I share this belief and strive to maintain the highest standards of ethical governance. Transparency,
accountability, and integrity are the cornerstones of my approach to public service, ensuring my actions consistently reflect the
values and interests of the people I represent.
The essential principles for an elected official include integrity, sincerity, transparency, and a genuine commitment to serving the
people. These core values define effective and honorable leadership, fostering trust and respect between leaders and the public.
Integrity is crucial to ethical leadership, involving steadfast adherence to moral principles and ethical standards. An official’s
actions must consistently reflect honesty and uprightness, building public trust by prioritizing the common good over personal
gain. Leaders with integrity navigate governance complexities with a clear moral compass, making just and equitable decisions.
Sincerity ensures that an official’s words and actions are genuine and honest. Sincere leaders communicate openly with
constituents, fostering authenticity and reliability. This openness strengthens relationships with the public, which is crucial for
effective governance. Sincere officials are committed to their promises, willing to admit mistakes, and eager to learn and improve,
demonstrating humility and dedication.
Transparency is vital for accountability and public trust. It allows constituents to see the workings of government, ensuring that
decisions, policies, and procedures are open and accessible. Transparent leadership encourages civic engagement, as informed
citizens are more likely to participate in the democratic process. Transparency also deters corruption by subjecting all actions and
decisions to public scrutiny, promoting fairness and justice.
A love for serving the people underscores that elected officials are there to serve their constituents, not for personal power or
prestige. This servant leadership mindset involves listening to the community, advocating for their needs, and working tirelessly to
improve their quality of life. Servant leaders demonstrate empathy and responsiveness, ensuring that policies and actions are
guided by the genuine needs and aspirations of the people they represent.
I am running for office because I genuinely care about people and believe in the power of community. I consider myself humble, with strong spiritual roots and a deep faith that guides my actions and decisions. I feel a calling to be a bridge connecting different ethnicities, fostering unity and understanding among our diverse population. Additionally, I am committed to espousing leadership among the next generation, inspiring them to achieve their full potential. My dedication to these values drives my desire to serve and make a positive impact in our community.
Legislative Duties: The main role of a state representative is to craft, debate, and vote on legislation that addresses the concerns
of both constituents and the state.
Constituent Services: State representatives serve as the direct link between the government and the people. They address
constituents' concerns, help navigate state services, and advocate for their needs within the legislative process. This includes
responding to letters, emails, and phone calls, and meeting with constituents to understand their issues firsthand. By effectively
addressing these concerns, representatives build trust and maintain a strong community connection.
Community Engagement: Active participation in community events and organizations is essential. State representatives attend
town hall meetings, local events, and public forums to stay connected and gather input on various issues. This engagement helps
them understand the unique challenges and opportunities within their district, allowing them to better represent their constituents'
interests in the legislature.
Policy Advocacy: Beyond their legislative duties, state representatives advocate for policies that benefit their district and state.
This involves collaborating with colleagues, state agencies, and stakeholders to promote initiatives that drive economic growth,
improve public services, and enhance residents' quality of life. Effective advocacy requires strong communication skills, the ability
to build coalitions, and a deep understanding of relevant issues.
Ethical Governance: High ethical standards are crucial. State representatives must ensure transparency, accountability, and
integrity in all actions, adhering to legal and ethical guidelines to foster public trust. This involves avoiding conflicts of interest,
being transparent about decision-making processes, and holding themselves accountable to their constituents and the law.
As a candidate, my mission is to leave a legacy of empowerment and representation for those who currently lack a strong voice in public policy. I am dedicated to advocating for underrepresented communities and ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed. I believe in educating the next generation towards leadership development and civic engagement, helping them to understand the importance of contributing to their community. My goal is to inspire them to care genuinely for their community, not just their own lives, fostering a spirit of collective responsibility and compassion. Through my efforts, I aim to create a more inclusive and engaged society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and make a difference.
I remembered when we moved to American Samoa and how beautiful and pristine the beaches were. Also, this was the time when my parents both got back together after being separated for a while. Although this is not my earliest memory for me, it is the most memorable, impactful as well as historical as an earliest memory, because I just remember feeling the true joy of being a united family again. I was eight years old at the time.
My very first job was McDonald's and I was there for about a year.
"Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance" by Angela Duckworth is my favorite book because it closely parallels my own life of overcoming challenges and struggles. Throughout my life, I have faced numerous obstacles and adversities, much like the stories and lessons shared in this book. Duckworth's emphasis on perseverance, resilience, and passion resonates deeply with me, reflecting my journey of navigating hardships and emerging stronger. "Grit" not only inspires me but also validates the importance of determination and hard work in achieving success, making it a profound and meaningful read that mirrors my personal experiences.
If I were a fictional character, I would want to be Luke Skywalker because Star Wars is my all-time favorite. Luke's journey from humble beginnings to becoming the chosen one for the Jedi resonates deeply with me. His story embodies the triumph of hope, perseverance, and destiny, reflecting my own belief in overcoming challenges and rising to fulfill one's true potential.
Pink Houses by John Cougar Mellencamp
During my childhood, frequent moves caused significant upheaval, making it difficult for me to form lasting friendships and resulting in a disrupted educational record. This instability was traumatic at the time, leaving me feeling unsettled and disconnected. However, looking back, I see these challenges as a blessing in disguise. The constant change helped me develop a deep love for people from diverse backgrounds and instilled in me a profound appreciation for my country. These experiences shaped my understanding of the importance of community and unity, driving my commitment to serve and represent all constituents with compassion and dedication.
Firstly, mutual respect and and Communication is key.
A productive relationship between the governor and the state legislature begins with mutual respect, recognizing their distinct
roles. Regular, open, and transparent communication through meetings and briefings fosters trust and ensures well-informed
decisions.
Second, collaboration and Compromise is essential. Collaboration is vital for achieving shared goals. The governor and
legislature should work together on policy, budget, and legislative priorities, finding common ground even on contentious issues.
Focusing on mutual objectives like economic growth and public safety helps create policies that benefit the public, with joint task
forces addressing specific issues..
Next it is vital to maintain a balance of powers.
A balanced distribution of powers is crucial for democracy. The governor should respect the legislative process, and the
legislature should acknowledge the executive's role in implementing laws. Checks and balances, such as veto power and override
capabilities, should be used wisely to prevent overreach and ensure decisions reflect broad consensus.
Finally, accountability and transparency, are absolutely essential. Both the governor and the legislature must be accountable to
the public. Transparent decision-making and clear communication of policies are essential. Public hearings, press conferences,
and reports keep citizens informed, while oversight committees and audits ensure actions align with the
The fentanyl crisis in Washington State requires a multifaceted approach that includes expanding treatment access, enhancing prevention and education, improving harm reduction strategies, strengthening law enforcement efforts, and supporting data-driven policies.
Second, transparent budgeting and spending is an ongoing issue. Transparency to ensure state budget
processes are open, showing taxpayers how their money is spent to build trust and support for necessary taxes. Efficiency audits
are necessary to conduct regular audits to identify and optimize areas for spending reduction without compromising service
quality, demonstrating fiscal responsibility.
Addressing homelessness, should proceed by access to mental health and addiction treatment, boosting affordable housing through public-private partnerships, and launching job training programs to help individuals achieve independence. Simplifying regulations and cutting bureaucratic red tape can expedite the development of housing and services, ensuring efficient and effective use of res
Addressing Taxation Inefficiencies relates to overall, government efficiency. To alleviate this, we should work to continuously
seek to improve government efficiency by reducing waste, streamlining operations, and implementing cost-saving measures.
Efficient use of public funds can reduce the need for additional taxation. Performance-Based Budgeting remains an option to
implement performance-based budgeting to ensure that state funds are allocated to programs that demonstrate effectiveness and
provide value to taxpayers.
Parental Involvement as it relates to educational choice. Opt-Out Provisions should be provided to allow parents to opt their
children out of specific lessons if they conflict with personal beliefs, respecting parental rights while maintaining educational
integrity. Informational sessions can be conducted with sessions to explain lesson content and purpose, addressing parental
concerns effectively
Non-politicians can introduce fresh ideas and innovative approaches to state legislatures. Their diverse professional backgrounds
in business, education, healthcare, and technology bring specialized knowledge that can enhance policy-making. Without the
constraints of traditional political thinking, they are able to devise creative solutions to long-standing issues, resulting in more
comprehensive and effective legislation.
Non-politicians often have a deeper connection to their constituents' daily lives and concerns, making them more relatable and
effective advocates. Their real-world experience provides a practical understanding of community issues, leading to more
grounded policy decisions. This direct connection ensures that the community's voices are heard and represented in the
legislative process.
Individuals without a political background are typically driven by a sincere desire to serve their communities, focusing on public
service rather than career advancement. This can result in greater attention to constituents' needs and less political maneuvering.
Newcomers to the legislature are less likely to be influenced by established political networks, promoting ethical governance and
reducing the risk of corruption.
Encouraging non-politicians to run for office supports the concept of a citizen legislature, where ordinary people take turns
governing. This aligns with democratic values and can lead to a more engaged and informed public. When people see that
legislators come from all walks of life, it inspires greater public participation and interest in running for office, thereby strengthening
democracy.
Non-politicians, such as entrepreneurs, can bring interdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving, leading to more comprehensive
and effective policies. They may also be more open to collaboration and bipartisan efforts, focusing on practical solutions and
common ground, which results in balanced legislation.
It is absolutely valuable to build relationships with other legislators. Strong relationships foster bipartisanship, enabling effective
cross-party collaboration and leading to balanced, comprehensive legislation. By working together, legislators can identify shared
goals, making it easier to develop policies that address a broader range of constituents' needs. Bipartisanship is essential for
creating widely supported legislation that effectively tackles complex issues.
Diverse relationships bring various perspectives to the policy-making process, resulting in innovative and well-rounded solutions.
Legislators with different expertise can share knowledge, leading to better-informed policy decisions. For example, those with
healthcare experience can enhance health policy, while educators can contribute to education reform. Leveraging collective
expertise results in more effective policies.
Good relationships streamline legislative processes by reducing conflicts and delays, expediting the passage of important bills.
When conflicts arise, strong relationships help find common ground and resolve issues quickly. Collaborative efforts ensure the
legislative process runs smoothly and efficiently.
Building coalitions strengthens advocacy efforts. A unified group of legislators can push for specific policies more effectively,
increasing the likelihood of success. Mutual support helps advance key legislation, ensuring important policies are enacted and
constituent needs are addressed.
Interacting with diverse colleagues helps legislators develop skills like negotiation, diplomacy, and conflict resolution. Building
relationships with other legislators exposes them to new ideas and perspectives, contributing to personal growth and effectiveness
as policymakers. Learning from colleagues enhances their ability to navigate legislative complexities and advocate effectively for
their constituents.
I will always keep my options, mind and heart open to the needs of the people and our community and wherever that may lead.
What do you call a cow with two legs? Answer: Lean Beef. What do you call a cow with no legs? Answer: Ground Beef : )
From my viewpoint, the legislature should carefully oversee the use of emergency powers to maintain a balance of power and safeguard individual freedoms. Although emergency powers can be essential in crisis situations, they should be granted with strict limitations and subject to regular legislative review and approval. This oversight is crucial for ensuring accountability and preventing the executive branch from exceeding its authority, thereby upholding the checks and balances vital to our democratic system.
I would implement a proposed Performance-Based Educational Spending Act aims to improve student outcomes by allocating more budget resources to schools demonstrating higher student performance, incentivizing excellence throughout Washington State. The proposed Act would emphasize a performance-based funding model, ensuring equitable distribution while rewarding high-performing schools with additional funding for educational programs, teacher development, and student resources. The State Board of Education will develop a fair and comprehensive framework to assess performance through standardized tests, graduation rates, and college admissions. Equitable considerations will ensure all schools have a baseline level of funding, with support programs for underperforming schools. The proposed Act would mandate annual reporting to the Legislature on fund distribution and impact, with implementation beginning in the next fiscal year. The overall goal would be to ensure incentives from educators to manage the correct expectations of core learning skills in our public schools, as it relates to core learning subjects.
Washington State Young Republicans (Lenny Chacone), Washington State Republican Party (Jim Walsh), Snohomish County Republican Party, Dr. Raul Garcia for US Senate, Maia Espinoza for State Representative, Nate Nehring, Snohomish County Council, Vice Chair, Vincent Cavaleri, Mill Creek City Councilmember, Legislative District 44, Legislative District 38, Legislative District 39, Jeb Brewer for Congress, Lynn Trinh for State Representative, Conversative Ladies of Washington, Jaskaran Singh for State Representative, Bill Cooper, (Retired Chief of Police), Debbie Blodgett (Former Snohomish County GOP Chair), LJ Rohrer for Snohomish County Council, Doug Raulstone, (Retired US Navy Captain)
Appropriations Committee:
As part of this committee, I could have an impact on budget allocation. In this way, would help decide how state funds are
allocated, directly affecting various public services and initiatives. I would help to achieve fiscal responsibility. As such, my role
would ensure that taxpayer money is spent efficiently and effectively.
Education Committee:
By helping to shape future generations, I would influence policies impacting the quality of education for children and young adults.
By implementing high curriculum and standards, I would be involved in setting academic standards and shaping the curriculum to
better prepare students for future challenges.
Finance Committee:
To endeavor for economic stability: I would influence financial policies ensuring the state's economic stability and growth. As
participating in taxation policies, I could work on tax policies significantly impacting businesses and individuals. In addition,
revenue generation is vital. I would help develop strategies for generating state revenue without unduly burdening citizens.
Public Safety Committee:
As public safety is a top priority, leveraging community safety, I would help create policies ensuring the safety and security of my
community. Law enforcement oversight would allow me to work on initiatives improving law enforcement practices and
accountability. Finally, with emergency preparedness, I would influence policies enhancing the state’s ability to respond to
emergencies and disasters.
Commerce and Economic Development Committee:
Business Growth: I could create policies promoting business development and economic growth.
Job Creation: I would focus on initiatives creating job opportunities and stimulating the local economy.
Regulatory Environment: I would shape a regulatory environment balancing business interests with public welfare
Maintaining financial transparency and government accountability are the necessary and essential for foundational reasons. By
building trust, this ensures financial transparency helps build trust between the government and its citizens. When people can see
how funds are allocated and spent, it reassures them that their tax money is being used responsibly and for the intended
purposes. This transparency is essential for establishing a foundation of trust, which is crucial for a stable and cooperative society.
There is always the issue of preventing corruption.
Transparency acts as a strong deterrent to corruption. When financial records and government activities are open to public
scrutiny, it becomes much harder for corrupt practices to take place. Accountability measures discourage officials from unethical
behavior by increasing the likelihood of detection and accountability.
Effective resource management and good financial stewardship are tantamount. Government accountability ensures that
resources are used efficiently and effectively. Transparent budgeting and spending processes allow for better monitoring and
evaluation of public projects and services. This oversight helps identify and eliminate wasteful spending, ensuring that resources
are directed to areas where they are most needed and can have the greatest impact.
Financial transparency can promote economic stability by creating a predictable and fair business environment. When businesses
and investors have confidence in the government’s financial practices, they are more likely to invest and engage in economic
activities. This can lead to job creation, economic growth, and improved living standards for citizens.
Finally it is a primary exercise in primary Democratic principles. Financial transparency and government accountability are
fundamental to the principles of democracy. They ensure that government power is exercised in a manner that is fair, just, and
aligned with the rule of law
I support thoughtful reforms to the state ballot initiative process to enhance its fairness and effectiveness. Increasing transparency in the signature-gathering process is crucial to prevent fraud and ensure initiatives truly reflect the will of the people. Additionally, stricter financial disclosure requirements are necessary so voters can see who is funding the initiatives. I also advocate for higher thresholds for passing initiatives with significant fiscal impacts to ensure responsible budgeting and avoid unintended financial consequences for the state. These changes would help preserve the integrity of the ballot initiative process while safeguarding the interests of Washington State residents.
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Campaign finance summary
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See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Washington House of Representatives District 44-Position 2 |
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Footnotes
