By Joyce Li, 2025 CLA Intern
Mock Campaign
A substantial portion of my responsibility as a CLA intern was preparing for mock campaign. For the mock campaign, the cohort was split into 2 teams with each putting forth and supporting a candidate from their respective teams to hypothetically run for Mike Fong’s seat in AD-49. There were 2 main portions of the mock campaign: Endorsement Panel and Soirée. Both simulated the experiences and struggles that an actual candidate encounters when campaigning. I learned how important it is to secure endorsements, not only because of the credibility it provides, but also the resources that come with an endorsement. Organizations like labor unions can mobilize their members to go canvassing and door knocking for you, while other groups may provide donations to support your campaign instead. Our panelists took the role very seriously, asking my team’s candidate the same questions they would ask any candidate in real life. Prior to this, I was not familiar with how candidates secured endorsements, and I appreciate that CAUSE exposed me to some of the underlying mechanisms that play a crucial role in a candidate’s victory.
Soirée
If I could capture the essence of Soirée Day in one word, it would be hectic. All of the hours we spent working during and outside of CAUSE hours on our mock campaigns built up to this moment. The entire day was a race against time to set up for the event, campaign for my candidate, network with attendees, and clean up before the venue kicked us out. The LA River Center was such a beautiful venue, and JP did such an amazing job with the art work, decoration, and theming. There were plenty of old and new faces at the event. One of my favorite interactions was during my conversation with Isa Whalen, the national director of APAPA (Asian Pacific American Public Affairs). I met her at a mixer during the Sacramento trip and hearing that she flew down from Sacramento the day of just to attend Soirée really warmed my heart. There were many people in attendance who flew out from different places and took time out of their busy schedules to come and support. Moments this really highlight the importance of showing up for people and organizations in your community who do great work.
