Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do faces mounting pressure to resign amid serious allegations of misconduct and an ongoing federal investigation.
At a Glance
- Two fellow supervisors call for Andrew Do’s resignation over residency issues and misuse of federal funds
- FBI raids homes of Do, his daughter, and properties linked to Viet America Society
- Allegations involve embezzlement of over $13 million meant for pandemic relief efforts
- Do’s daughter named in county’s civil lawsuit against Viet America Society
- Board to vote on removing Do from committee assignments on September 10
Calls for Resignation Mount as Allegations Unfold
Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do finds himself at the center of a political storm as fellow supervisors and community leaders demand his resignation. The controversy stems from questions about Do’s primary residence and alleged misuse of federal funds by a nonprofit organization tied to his daughter. Supervisors Katrina Foley and Vicente Sarmiento have been vocal in their calls for Do to step down, citing concerns about his ability to effectively represent his district and make critical decisions for the county.
Supervisor Katrina Foley emphasized the importance of proper representation, stating, “You do have to live in the district you represent. 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?” This residency issue has raised serious questions about Do’s eligibility to serve on the board and his commitment to his constituents.
Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley called on fellow Supervisor Andrew Do to resign his seat amid allegations his daughter was involved in a COVID-19 relief fund fraud. https://t.co/WP6MKyXrRa
— FOX 11 Los Angeles (@FOXLA) August 26, 2024
Federal Investigation Raises Alarm
The situation took a more serious turn when federal agents executed search warrants at locations connected to the Viet America Society (VAS) and a home owned by Do in North Tustin. The FBI is investigating allegations that VAS embezzled over $13 million in federal funds intended for senior meals during the pandemic. This probe has cast a shadow over Do’s tenure and his association with the nonprofit.
“Federal investigators answered our call to investigate the potential criminal activities by VAS and their principals,” Supervisor Katrina Foley said 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.”
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Do’s daughter, Rhiannon, an officer with VAS, is named in the county’s civil lawsuit against the organization. This familial connection has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest and the propriety of Do’s actions in directing funds to VAS.
Reminder: Back in December, Supervisor Andrew Do called for the firing of the reporter who broke this scandal. https://t.co/ZwFvZCUOkn https://t.co/7in7gimlQl
— California Sun (@mmcphate) August 22, 2024
Impact on County Governance
The controversy surrounding Do has significant implications for Orange County’s governance. Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento highlighted the critical nature of upcoming decisions, including the selection of a new county CEO and the allocation of resources for homelessness and mental health services. “We have some critical decisions that we need to make as a board,” Sarmiento stated. “So those are decisions when a person is compromised they can’t make thoughtful and for us to be able to even trust that opinion makes it very difficult.”
“Orange County taxpayers have every right to be livid and demand justice,” said state Sen. Janet Nguyen, who represents the 36th District and is running for Do’s seat. “I call upon Andrew Do to immediately resign as Supervisor for the First District.”
In response to the growing controversy, Board Chair Don Wagner has moved for a vote to remove Do from all board and chairman committee assignments. This vote is scheduled for the September 10 meeting and is expected to receive unanimous approval. The potential removal from these assignments would significantly diminish Do’s influence and ability to participate in county decision-making processes.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation continues and pressure mounts, the future of Andrew Do’s political career hangs in the balance. The allegations of misconduct and potential misuse of public funds have eroded trust in his leadership. While Do has not been convicted of any crime, the ongoing federal probe and civil lawsuit have created a cloud of suspicion that many believe makes his position untenable.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the outcome of this political upheaval in Orange County. Taxpayers and constituents will be watching closely to see how the Board of Supervisors addresses these serious allegations and works to restore public trust in local government. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in public office.
Sources
- FBI raids home of OC supervisor’s daughter after lawsuit alleges nonprofit misused COVID funds
- Calls for Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do to resign grow amid federal probe
- OC Supervisor Andrew Do urged to resign over residence concerns, daughter’s lawsuit
- Two fellow OC supervisors call for Andrew Do to be forced out of power and resign immediately
- Calls grow for OC Supervisor Andrew Do to resign