In a dramatic turn of events, calls for Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do to resign have surged amid serious allegations and mounting controversy.
At a Glance
- Two supervisors demanded Andrew Do’s resignation over residency questions and misuse of funds.
- The FBI raided locations linked to Viet America Society and a home owned by Do.
- Federal agents are investigating the misuse of $13 million in federal funds during the pandemic.
- The vote on Do’s committee assignments is scheduled for September 10.
Residency and Misuse of Funds
Two Orange County supervisors, Katrina Foley and Vicente Sarmiento, have called for Andrew Do to resign, citing severe concerns about his primary residence and the improper use of federal funds by a nonprofit associated with his daughter. Questions surrounding Do’s residency and conduct have cast doubts on his ability to represent his district effectively.
Supervisor Katrina Foley emphasized the necessity of living in the district one represents, questioning Do’s eligibility if he resides outside District One: “You do have to live in the district you represent,” said Foley, who represents the Fifth District of Orange County. ”So, if he lives in Tustin with his family, then how can he be representing District One when Tustin is not part of District One?”
FBI Raids and Investigation
The FBI recently served search warrants at multiple locations tied to the Viet America Society and a home owned by Do in North Tustin. These actions are part of a broader investigation into the alleged embezzlement of over $13 million in federal funds intended for senior meals during the pandemic. Do’s daughter, Rhiannon, an officer with the nonprofit, has been named in the county’s civil lawsuit.
Vicente Sarmiento highlighted the importance of trust in local governance during these investigations: “We have some critical decisions that we need to make as a board,” he said. “…decisions when a person is compromised they can’t make thoughtfully, and for us to be able to even trust that opinion makes it very difficult.”
Committee Assignments and Upcoming Vote
Board Chair Don Wagner has called for a vote to remove Do from all board and chairman committee assignments, with the vote scheduled for a meeting on September 10. This move underscores the widespread concern among board members about Do’s capacity to fulfill his responsibilities amid these allegations.
The Democratic Party of Orange County and various community organizations, including the Orange County Justice Fund and Vietnamese American Federation of Southern California, have also joined in the demand for his resignation.
Calls for Immediate Resignation
State Sen. Janet Nguyen, who is running for Do’s seat, has voiced a strong appeal for his immediate resignation: “Orange County taxpayers have every right to be livid and demand justice,” she said. “I call upon Andrew Do to immediately resign as Supervisor for the First District.”
Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento noted: “We must remember that Supervisor Do has not been convicted of a crime, nor is he a named defendant in the complaint,” emphasizing due process while supporting the investigation.
Federal Investigation and Future Implications
Federal agents have extended their investigation to several properties connected to the nonprofit’s activities, detailing extensive financial mismanagement. The controversy not only impacts Do but places the board’s governance practices under intense scrutiny. The community and various local organizations have reiterated their call for transparent and ethical leadership.
“Federal investigators answered our call to investigate the potential criminal activities by VAS and their principals,” Supervisor Katrina Foley further noted in a statement. “The concerns raised by our County staff were clearly warranted, and I stand in support of all efforts to bring forward justice to our taxpayers.”
The situation continues to develop as the board prepares for the upcoming vote. All eyes remain on Andrew Do and the decisions that will shape the future direction of Orange County’s leadership.
Sources
1. OC Supervisor Andrew Do urged to resign over residence concerns, daughter’s lawsuit
2. Two fellow OC supervisors call for Andrew Do to be forced out of power and resign immediately
3. FBI raids homes of Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do and his daughter
