NEWPORT BEACH — Irvine Mayor Larry Agran and City Council candidate Scotty Hong officially kicked off their 2026 campaigns Saturday, drawing community leaders, business owners and supporters to a fundraising reception at the Newport Beach Tennis Club.
The event highlighted both Agran’s bid for another term as mayor and Hong’s campaign for Irvine City Council’s District 6 seat, one of the city’s newest districts under Irvine’s transition to district-based elections.
Agran, a longtime figure in Irvine politics, described the election as part of a larger effort to preserve the city’s tradition of strong governance and long-term planning.
“Irvine didn’t become one of America’s most successful cities by accident,” Agran said. “It takes leadership, experience and a commitment to the future.”
Agran also praised Hong, who currently serves as his chief policy advisor, calling him one of the most promising young leaders he has worked with during his decades in public service.
Hong, a Harvard University graduate who later earned a Master of Public Administration degree from Cornell University, said District 6 represents one of Irvine’s most dynamic communities, encompassing UC Irvine, the Irvine Business Complex, the Jamboree and MacArthur corridors, and dozens of apartment communities.
“This is one of the fastest-changing parts of the city,” Hong said. “It deserves strong representation and a voice that understands both growth and community needs.”
Hong’s campaign is built around the vision of “A Safer, Greener, Better-Connected Irvine,” starting with District 6.
Former Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan also addressed the crowd, offering support for both candidates while raising concerns about the city’s financial outlook. She said Irvine is now facing its first budget deficit, marking a shift in the city’s long-stable fiscal position and underscoring the need for experienced leadership.
“A lot of people think governing is about what you see on social media, but that’s only a small part of it,” Khan said. “Most of the work happens behind the scenes — in meetings, conversations, negotiations, and the day-to-day effort to serve and protect the community.”
Khan endorsed both Agran and Hong, noting that Hong’s experience working inside City Hall gives him a practical understanding of municipal operations and policymaking.
Former Irvine Mayor Sukhee Kang also attended the event. Kang is currently running for Irvine City Council District 1 in this year’s election.
The Nov. 3 election is expected to draw significant attention as Irvine continues adapting to district-based representation. Agran is seeking re-election and currently faces no announced challenger. Hong is making his first run for public office and is expected to compete against current Councilmember Kathleen Treseder for the District 6 seat.
