A California congressional challenger mistakenly posted the wrong Black woman’s photo to advertise an endorsement from U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, then took it down after questions surfaced. The mix-up and the candidate’s past attacks on a GOP incumbent have produced sharp criticism from Republican operatives. This story tracks the error, the reaction from national Republicans, the candidate’s background, and where the race stands now. Expect clear political consequences in a closely watched district.
The campaign website for Esther Kim Varet ran a promotional endorsement from Rep. Jasmine Crockett but used a photo of someone else, a glaring and avoidable error that the campaign removed after it was flagged. Mistakes like that look sloppy at best and disrespectful at worst, and in a heated race they become ammunition for opponents. Varet’s team pulled the image after inquiries highlighted the mismatch, but the damage to her credibility was already circulating.
The misstep drew an immediate, biting reaction from Republican ranks. “Racist. Arrogant. Totally out of touch. Good thing @estherkimvaret’s hate-filled, bigoted self isn’t getting anywhere near Congress,” Christian Martinez, national Hispanic press secretary for the National Republican Congressional Committee, wrote on X. That kind of language frames the episode as more than a technical error; it’s being cast as evidence of tone-deafness and bias.
Esther Kim Varet is the founder of Various Small Fires, a chain of art galleries with locations spanning Los Angeles, Dallas and Seoul, and she is challenging Rep. Young Kim, a Republican, in California’s 40th Congressional District. The seat covers parts of Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties and is competitive after recent redistricting. Varet’s profile as a business owner and daughter of Korean immigrants is central to her pitch, but her own rhetoric has invited controversy.
Varet previously attacked Rep. Young Kim’s English and accused her of being an “ESL puppet,” a jab that prompted backlash from both local voters and national groups. Rep. Kim pushed back with a personal defense that underscores her roots and pride. “My story is not unique. It’s the story of so many Korean Americans and immigrants across the country who are proud Americans and are making our communities better every day. I’m proud of my accent and will keep using my voice to protect the American dream for future generations,” Kim previously told Fox News Digital.
National Republican organizations haven’t let the issues slide. The NRCC labeled Varet “unhinged” after the ESL comment and cited additional inflammatory exchanges, saying she once told a party staffer to “prove that you’re a REAL Latino,” in a separate incident. Those episodes feed a narrative Republicans want voters to remember about temperament and respect for communities of color. In a district where identity and message matter, those moments can shift undecided voters.
Politics in the area are also being reshaped by new lines and new matchups, which raises the stakes for both parties. Rep. Kim now faces a Republican primary challenge from Rep. Ken Calvert as the district map was redrawn following a statewide redistricting measure. The redistricting pushed parties into strategic fights and left incumbents defending their records while newcomers try to capitalize on fresh constituencies.
The endorsement photo blunder, the public barbs and the broader redistricting fight make this contest a test of messaging and discipline. For Republicans backing Kim, the incident highlights contrasts in competence and composure that they believe will decide votes. For Democrats, the misstep is a lesson in damage control and a reminder that sloppy campaign work can undercut bigger themes.
As the campaign continues, expect both sides to sharpen their lines and amplify missteps that fit their narratives. Voters in the 40th will hear competing takes on character, competence and cultural respect as Election Day approaches. The mix of personal attacks, a social media gaffe and high-stakes redistricting ensures this race stays in the spotlight.
Darnell Thompkins is a Canadian-born American and conservative opinion writer who brings a unique perspective to political and cultural discussions. Passionate about traditional values and individual freedoms, Darnell’s commentary reflects his commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue. When he’s not writing, he enjoys watching hockey and celebrating the sport that connects his Canadian roots with his American journey.