David Tangipa

David Tangipa
Member of the California State Assembly
from the 8th district
Incumbent
Assumed office
December 2, 2024
Preceded byJim Patterson
Personal details
Born (1995-12-09) December 9, 1995 (age 29)
Sacramento, California, U.S.
Political partyRepublican
Residence(s)Fresno, California, U.S.
EducationCalifornia State University, Fresno (BS, MBA)
College football career
PositionTight end
Class20
MajorPolitical science/Criminology
Career highlights and awards

David Jariustokaeutulelei Tangipa[1] (born December 9, 1995) is an American businessman, former football player, and politician who is a member of the California State Assembly from the 8th district. Tangipa is believed to be the first Tongan American to be elected to public office in the United States.

Early life and education

Tangipa born and raised in Sacramento, California to a veteran father and Tongan mother. He attended California State University, Fresno, where he played tight end for the Bulldogs and earned a Bachelor of Science in political science and criminology as well as a Master of Business Administration.[2]

Career

Football

Tangipa played on the Fresno State Bulldogs football team as a tight end.

Politics

Tangipa worked as a field representative for Fresno County Supervisor Nathan Magsig.

Following incumbent Jim Patterson's retirement, Tangipa ran for the California State Assembly in the 8th district in 2024. Patterson endorsed his candidacy. He advanced to the general election with fellow Republican former U.S. Representative George Radanovich, ultimately defeating him.[3]

References

  1. ^ https://x.com/DavidTangipaCA/status/1755438020944412886. {{cite web}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)
  2. ^ Torres, Monty (October 7, 2024). "Meet The Candidate: David Tangipa, 8th Assembly District". KMPH-TV. Retrieved November 10, 2024.
  3. ^ Montalvo, Melissa (October 10, 2024). "Republicans Radanovich, Tangipa face off in California Assembly District 8 race". The Fresno Bee. Retrieved November 17, 2024.