| David Tangipa | |||||||||||
| State Assembly: | California | ||||||||||
| District: | 8th | ||||||||||
| Term Start: | December 2, 2024 | ||||||||||
| Succeeding: | Jim Patterson | ||||||||||
| Birth Date: | 9 December 1995 | ||||||||||
| Birth Place: | Sacramento, California, U.S. | ||||||||||
| Party: | Republican | ||||||||||
| Residence: | Fresno, California, U.S. | ||||||||||
| Education: | California State University, Fresno (BS, MBA) | ||||||||||
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David Jariustokaeutulelei Tangipa[1] (born December 9, 1995) is an American businessman, former football player, and politician who is a member-elect 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.
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]
Tangipa played on the Fresno State Bulldogs football team as a tight end.
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]