Businessman James Cheng is a volunteer strategist for the Republican presidential ticket of John McCain and Sarah Palin. But stressing the Asian Americans’ growing empowerment, he urged them to volunteer in campaigns and to vote in the November 4 elections–whether as a Republican, or as a Democrat.

“It is important for Asian Americans to vote in this coming election, regardless of whom they will vote for,” he said. “Of course, I prefer that everyone votes for McCain, but regardless of party, we do need to demonstrate that Asian Americans will come out and vote.” He pointed out campaigns and pollsters track voter demographics at the polls, but not whom you vote for.

He added: “Voting is what gives our community political strength and a voice in government. So I hope Asian Americans take it to heart and volunteer for the candidate of their choice and certainly go out and vote on Election Day.”

Jim, as his friends call him, is the president and CEO of Computer Hi-Tech Management Inc. The oldest of three sons, he was born in Taiwan and came to the U.S. at the age of three. Among other things, he’s a B.S. Computer Science graduate.

He was a Xerox Corp. programmer/intern, who rapidly rose from programmer to senior vice president at ECI Systems & Engineering before starting his own business. Under his leadership, his company grew from a handful to about 550 people and generated $90 million in revenue in about 10 years.

Yet as a volunteer, Jim rolls up his sleeves and do whatever it takes to “help get the message out about our candidates–including handing out bumper stickers and assisting at campaign rallies.”

Last month, he drove some 200 miles to Virginia Beach to deliver boxes of McCain-Palin stickers at a community event. With this supportive wife standing beside him, he explained why they are for Senator McCain and Alaska Gov. Palin

“I believe that McCain-Palin is the right choice for Asian American voters,” he said. “Our community’s core values of hard-work, low taxes, good education and family values are what this ticket stands for.”

“Also, I use to have my own business before, and I believe that McCain-Palin is the right choice for entrepreneurs and business owners,” he added. “Low taxes and pro-business policies are important to keep our country’s economy and jobs growing.”

Jim works with Peter Su, director of the National Asian American Coalitions for McCain-Palin. Peter proudly introduced him to former Senator George Allen at an ethnic unity rally in Virginia. Peter told Asian Fortune: “Jim is one of several key volunteers who’s been very active in helping Asian Americans get involved in the campaign. He’s a businessman, and many Asian Americans are business owners, so he has the ability to relate to the community.”

His wife has also been a strong supporter of the campaign. Jeanette Wang (Wang Tze-Lei) is a popular Taiwanese-American recording artist. At the recent Republican National Convention in Minnesota, she sang a gospel song in Chinese and English at the RNC prayer breakfast. She was the first Asian American to sing at such an event.

Q & A

What challenges did you overcome in your life and career? One of the biggest decisions in my life was starting my own business. I did this at the age of 35. It was not an easy decision. I had a very comfortable job, and I was doing what I enjoyed. But I had an opportunity to do something on my own, in a field that I understood. Sometimes, when an opportunity like that presents itself, a person must choose between taking a chance or forever asking himself, “What if?” I chose starting my own business. I was very fortunate. I have a very supportive wife and parents, and had the help of many people.

What did you learn from your parents? My parents, Richard and Nancy Cheng of Virginia Beach, taught me a lot! My dad came to the U.S. as a graduate student with $30 in his pocket and a growing family to feed. He eventually earned his Ph.D. and became a successful educator, and later a very successful entrepreneur. He taught me that there are no limits to a person’s potential, if the person is willing to work hard. My mother helped with raising a family and later, with running a business. They personify the American Dream, and showed what can be done with hard work and self- sacrifice.

What are your hobbies? My hobbies are pretty much on hold until after November 4th –golf, running and travel.

What is your philosophy in life? I believe that people should be true to themselves and enjoy life. They should be doing what makes them happy. But if they are not, then they should make a plan to get there and not blame anyone else in the meantime!