Monday, November 10, 2025
Why do millions of evangelicals in California not vote—when they could decide the governor’s race?
Lance Wallnau:
I keep asking this question because it doesn’t make sense to me. We have millions of evangelicals in California, yet only a fraction of them vote. How is it possible that such a large group could essentially decide the governor’s race and still stay home?
Ché Ahn:
That’s exactly the problem, Lance. We have about six million registered evangelicals in California, but roughly three million of them don’t vote. In the last gubernatorial election, only about eight million total votes decided the outcome. If even a portion of disengaged believers showed up, we would completely change the political landscape of this state.
Why do Christians pray but not act when policies affect families, children, and public safety?
Lance Wallnau:
This is what confuses me. Christians pray passionately about what’s happening in California, but when it comes time to vote, they disengage. Why do you think that disconnect exists?
Ché Ahn:
I believe many believers see prayer as spiritual obedience but don’t recognize voting as a moral responsibility. Yet the laws that shape education, crime, and family life are decided through elections. We’re asking God to intervene while ignoring the authority He’s already given us as citizens. Prayer and participation are meant to go together.
Why should people pay attention to your run for governor right now?
Lance Wallnau:
I’ve known you for years, and when you told me God was calling you to run for governor, I knew it would be a battle. Why do you believe this moment matters?
Ché Ahn:
This moment matters because California is at a breaking point. I’ve spent decades leading churches, mentoring leaders, and standing for biblical and constitutional truth. People call me “Papa Ché” because I lead like a father—protecting, guiding, and taking responsibility. I believe God is calling me to bring that same leadership to this state.
What happened when California shut down churches, and why did you decide to sue?
Lance Wallnau:
A lot of people forget this story. Walk us through what actually happened when the state shut down churches and why you chose to take legal action.
Ché Ahn:
During COVID, churches were declared non-essential while abortion clinics, marijuana dispensaries, and even strip clubs stayed open. Gavin Newsom allowed protests and riots, but worship was restricted. I knew our First Amendment rights were being violated, so we reopened our church and filed suit. I couldn’t comply with a law that treated faith as expendable.
Were you alone in standing up, or did other pastors join you?
Lance Wallnau:
Some people might think this was just you acting independently. Were other pastors willing to stand with you?
Ché Ahn:
I was not alone. I invited other pastors to join the lawsuit, and 145 pastors signed on as plaintiffs. They understood the risks—fines, jail time, retaliation—but they also understood the stakes. This was a unified stand for religious freedom, not a personal protest.
What kind of legal threats were you facing from the state?
Lance Wallnau:
People may not realize how serious this got. What were you actually being threatened with?
Ché Ahn:
The district attorney threatened me with up to one year in jail, $4.5 million in fines, and even the arrest of church members. These threats came while we were already in litigation. It was intimidation, plain and simple. But I knew backing down would set a dangerous precedent.
How did the Supreme Court case end, and why was it such a big deal?
Lance Wallnau:
This case went all the way to the top. What happened, and why should people care?
Ché Ahn:
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6–3 in our favor, affirming that California violated our First Amendment rights. We won a $1.3 million settlement, and the decision became a national precedent for religious freedom. Even Chief Justice Roberts sided with us because the discrimination was so clear. It showed that no governor is above the Constitution.
Why do you describe California as totalitarian or Marxist?
Lance Wallnau:
You’ve used strong language to describe what’s happening in California. Why?
Ché Ahn:
Because I’ve watched the government selectively enforce laws, silence opposition, and consolidate power. Churches were shut down while riots were celebrated. Criminals were released while law-abiding citizens were threatened. That’s not democracy—it’s control.
How can conservatives realistically win in California?
Lance Wallnau:
A lot of people think California is unwinnable. With only about 25% registered Republicans, is there really a path forward?
Ché Ahn:
Absolutely. The issue isn’t party registration—it’s turnout. Millions of conservatives, independents, and Christians simply don’t vote. Presidential elections prove Californians will cross party lines. If we mobilize disengaged voters, we can win statewide.
How has theology inside the church contributed to political disengagement?
Lance Wallnau:
You’ve said this isn’t just a political problem—it’s a church problem. What do you mean?
Ché Ahn:
Many churches teach that faith and government should stay separate, even though that idea isn’t biblical or constitutional. Others believe things will only get worse, so why bother engaging. Both mindsets produce passivity. I believe Jesus is King over every sphere, including government.
How do you communicate your message to non-Christians?
Lance Wallnau:
You’re going to need support beyond the church. How do you reach people who don’t share your faith?
Ché Ahn:
I focus on real-life issues—crime, homelessness, affordability, and parental rights. These affect everyone, regardless of belief. I don’t lead with religious language; I lead with common sense and measurable outcomes. People are tired of ideology—they want solutions.
What caused California’s crime surge, in your view?
Lance Wallnau:
Crime is one of the biggest concerns right now. What went wrong?
Ché Ahn:
Proposition 47 downgraded serious crimes from felonies to misdemeanors, and it was retroactive. Criminals were released, enforcement collapsed, and repeat offenses skyrocketed. Voters passed Proposition 36 to fix this, but the governor refuses to enforce it. As governor, I will.
What is your plan to address homelessness?
Lance Wallnau:
California has spent billions with little to show for it. What would you do differently?
Ché Ahn:
I separate those who primarily need housing from those battling addiction or mental illness. Faith-based and nonprofit programs with proven recovery outcomes work far better than government bureaucracy. I would redirect funding to what actually transforms lives. Compassion must include accountability.
Why do you say parental rights are under attack?
Lance Wallnau:
Parents across the country are concerned about schools. What’s happening in California?
Ché Ahn:
New laws prevent parents from being informed about major decisions involving their children, including gender transitions. That strips families of their God-given role. Even Democratic parents overwhelmingly support restoring parental rights. This is not a partisan issue—it’s a family issue.
What is your energy plan for California?
Lance Wallnau:
Energy costs are crushing families. What’s your solution?
Ché Ahn:
California has massive oil and gas reserves but imports over half its energy from overseas. That’s economic and environmental hypocrisy. Producing energy locally would lower costs and reduce global pollution. Energy independence is key to affordability.
Why do you say you’re running for all Californians, not just conservatives?
Lance Wallnau:
Some people may assume this is a narrow campaign. How do you respond?
Ché Ahn:
I’ve pastored Democrats, Republicans, and independents for decades. “Papa Ché” reflects how I lead—with protection, care, and responsibility. California is an orphaned state right now. I’m running to restore dignity, opportunity, and hope for everyone.
What makes you different from the other candidates in the race?
Lance Wallnau:
You’re not the only Republican running. What sets you apart?
Ché Ahn:
I’m the only candidate who has publicly signed a comprehensive pro-family, pro-life, pro-freedom statement. I’m also an Asian immigrant who came here legally and lived the American dream. California is diverse, and my background allows me to connect where others can’t. I believe that gives us a real pathway to victory.