Getting involved with politics was far on Dr. Max Gouron's agenda when he moved to Texas in 1972. Gouron transferred to the United States to attend Rice University in Houston after being raised in Tehran. He was awarded a full university scholarship and later continued to complete his M.D. at the University of Texas Health Center. Now he has been practicing anesthesiology for nearly 20 years after moving to Orange County. However, his move was not without struggle, as he faced many challenges like other immigrants. He explains how settling into American culture requires time and effort. He highlights issues that first-generation immigrants have to overcome including financial matters, the language, and the social behavior. Only after overcoming such hurdles can you become aware of your rights as a taxpaying citizen. Since overcoming his personal challenges, Gouron is campaigning to represent California's 45th district in Congress! He labels his Iranian roots and immigration experiences as reasons for him opening his eyes to the importance of civic participation. Gouron is running as a Democrat and must succeed Republican Mimi Walters to win a seat. Although not impossible, Gouron faces a huge challenge. A Democrat has not been elected in more than 30 years I the 45th district. Gouron remains optimistic despite Walters winning her last election by an impressive 65%. There is certainly something different in the air at elections this year. Citizens are tired of the usual status quo; this is illustrated by the fact that Sanders and Trump are still in play. It's not a complete impossibility that those with a 'no party preference' will be able to be swayed. Iranian Americans made up a significant proportion of Gouron's district, which also gives him an advantage. Many of which have recently aired their concerns and disappointment relating to the recent visa waiver discrimination implementation. Gouron contends that he will stand against such discriminatory policies. He will ensure that the new Visa Integrity and Security Act (HR 503) is a priority for discussion as it targets those applying for visas from Iran, Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Syria due to so-called security measures. Gouron argues that Walters continually votes against the best interests of the Iranian-American community. She has done this through supporting the Visa Waiver Program Improvement Act (HR 158) along with a string of other bills that are set to expand sanctions against the people of Iran. Optimistic Gouron believes that he can bring something new and fresh to the table. He believes that his characteristics and approaches set him aside from his opponents. Returning politics to its integral route is a key aim of his campaign. Gouron promises to focus only on the best interest of the people in his district. He has called upon the Iranian American community in Orange County for support. The community has come to together to help Gouron succeed by making banners and signs and spreading the word through the use of social media platforms. Gouron urged Iranian Americans to get on board and engaged in politics so that changes be implemented.