If you want to win you will have to work hard.  I feel most of the candidates worked hard but not hard enough.  It is harder because there were 4 candidate but nonetheless push harder.  People are willing to listen, if you can present it in a way that can get their attention you will have the votes no matter what.  That is what Politics is all about, presentation!
I've heard he a well known guy, but the fact is well known or not you need to be presentable, approachable and persuasive.  As for the long term goals, Its a goal.  Goal meaning its a want-its in the works.  He never stated what he planned to do if he got the position.  If you have a plan people will listen to what you have to say.  If you don't have a plan who's going to listen???  Its something to think about.  Its quite interesting hearing their politics.  I also mention to him, to keep in mind he is not the only Hmong person running.  Mr. Heu will have to differentiate himself from the rest to be on top, I'm not sure how he  differentiated himself.     

What ever happened is history, let this be a lesson learned for all, as it looks really really bad on our part.  Its exactly what they say, when something good comes along every hmong person wants it for their name-prime example.     Back in 2000 I helped out with Senator Mee Moua campaign it was much simpler.  First Hmong person running everyone got excited, basically an automatic win and she also had a great team helping her campaign.  Senator Mee Moua also has the background for the seat,  the experience she lacked but she made up with her educational background and career.   The campaign team also did a great job of getting out there and reaching for the community for support.  Who ever runs next, look back at what was good and build off of it.