Washington, D.C., November 5, 2024: In this year’s elections, an unprecedented wave of Indian American and South Asian candidates are vying for positions across local, state, and federal levels.
This marks a significant moment in American politics, reflecting the rising political engagement within the South Asian community, motivated by a shared commitment to representation, equity, and change.
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, a trailblazer for the community, has often said, “If you are not at the table, you are on the menu,” a statement that has inspired many to seek public office and advocate for the needs of diverse populations.
With candidates competing for Congressional seats, state legislatures, and local offices, Indian Americans and South Asians are making their presence felt in states such as California, New York, Texas, and Virginia.
Their platforms address key issues like healthcare reform, affordable housing, climate change, education access, and public safety, making them champions for equity and justice for all Americans.
Federal Candidates: Shaping National Policy and Advancing Representation
Indian American and South Asian leaders running for Congress bring a wealth of experience and dedication to their roles. These candidates are notable not only for their representation but also for the progressive, community-centered policies they advocate.
Ami Bera (California’s 7th District) – A physician and seasoned lawmaker, Bera is seeking re-election to represent California’s 7th District.
Having served in Congress since 2013, Bera’s medical background deeply influences his policy priorities, with a strong focus on healthcare reform, expanding access, and affordability.
He was previously Chief Medical Officer for Sacramento County and emphasizes bipartisan solutions to improve healthcare, tackle the opioid crisis, and support veterans.
Bera also serves on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, advocating for diplomacy, global engagement, and strong international partnerships.
He’s committed to advancing climate change policy, aiming to promote clean energy and environmental protection. His experience, bipartisanship, and dedication to middle-class families make him a prominent figure in California politics.
Raja Krishnamoorthi (Illinois’s 8th District) – Krishnamoorthi has represented Illinois’s 8th District since 2017 and is known for his extensive background in engineering, law, and public service.
A Princeton and Harvard graduate, he has worked on a wide array of issues ranging from national security to economic equity.
As a member of the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition with China, he champions fair economic opportunities, healthcare reform, and government accountability.
His dedication to strengthening the U.S. economy, combating corruption, and ensuring fair wages has made him a trusted representative for Illinois’s working families.
In Congress, Krishnamoorthi remains committed to policies that foster U.S. competitiveness, strengthen middle-class families, and expand access to affordable healthcare, particularly for underserved communities.
Ro Khanna (California’s 17th District) – Representing Silicon Valley, Khanna is a prominent progressive leader with a vision for economic reform and environmental sustainability.
A former Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Department of Commerce, he has built his platform on equity, clean energy, and technology accessibility.
Khanna is a strong proponent of the Green New Deal and actively pushes for clean energy investments and regulation of large corporations, especially in tech and fossil fuels.
Known for his transparent approach, Khanna refuses corporate PAC money, focusing instead on grassroots fundraising.
His legislative agenda seeks to ensure that technological advancements benefit all Americans, aiming for a more inclusive digital and economic future.
His deep ties to Silicon Valley and commitment to a sustainable economy position him as a powerful advocate for change.
Pramila Jayapal (Washington’s 7th District) – Jayapal is a formidable force in Washington as the first Indian-American woman in Congress.
A longtime civil rights advocate, she founded OneAmerica, an immigrant advocacy group, following the events of 9/11.
Since being elected in 2017, Jayapal has led with a progressive agenda, championing Medicare for All and comprehensive immigration reform.
As the chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, she has been instrumental in advancing economic justice, social equity, and healthcare reform.
Known for her advocacy of marginalized communities, she serves on influential committees like Judiciary and Budget, where she consistently pushes for protections for low-income families, affordable housing, and fair wages.
Her unwavering stance on progressive issues positions her as a vital voice for social justice in Congress.
Shri Thanedar (Michigan’s 13th District) – A former businessman and current Congressman, Thanedar brings a unique perspective to the Michigan delegation.
Originally from India, Thanedar immigrated to the U.S., where he built a successful chemical testing business before entering politics.
His legislative focus includes economic equity, government transparency, and increased minimum wages. In his past roles, he has championed public education and supported initiatives for workers’ rights.
Although he has faced some scrutiny regarding his business past, Thanedar remains committed to advocating for Michigan’s working-class families, ensuring they have access to resources and fair economic opportunities.
Suhas Subramanyam (Virginia’s 10th District) – A current Virginia State Senator, Subramanyam is known for his work on healthcare access, economic reform, and technology policy.
A graduate of Northwestern Law School, he previously served as a White House technology policy advisor, working on cybersecurity and government modernization initiatives.
Subramanyam’s focus on practical solutions, such as lowering prescription drug costs and reducing energy overcharges, has made him a popular figure in Virginia politics.
If elected, he aims to continue delivering concrete results for Virginia families by advancing healthcare accessibility, affordable education, and economic growth.
Dr. Amish Shah (Arizona’s 1st District) – Shah, a physician and former Arizona State Representative, is known for his commitment to public health and community service.
With a background in medicine and public health, he has focused on healthcare access, disease prevention, and education reform.
Shah’s campaign emphasizes preventive healthcare, community health initiatives, and addressing healthcare disparities.
His scientific approach to policy, combined with his hands-on medical experience, makes him a compelling candidate in Arizona, aiming to prioritize the well-being of Arizona families through evidence-based policies.
State-Level Engagement: Indian Americans Expanding Influence Nationwide
At the state level, South Asian candidates are bringing fresh perspectives to legislatures across the country, advocating for progressive policies on healthcare, education, and economic reform.
Ashwin Ramaswami (Georgia State Senate, District 48) – As a young, second-generation immigrant and software engineer, Ramaswami represents a new wave of political leadership.
His platform addresses critical issues for Generation Z, including cybersecurity, technology, and education reform.
If elected, he would be the youngest Gen Z Indian-American in Georgia’s Senate, bringing a voice to young people navigating economic and social barriers.
Nikil Saval (Pennsylvania State Senate, District 1) – Known for his progressive platform, Saval’s key policies focus on housing affordability, climate action, and equitable economic growth.
His signature Whole-Home Repairs Act offers financial support to low-income homeowners and small landlords, aiming to enhance housing conditions across Pennsylvania.
A writer and former magazine editor, Saval’s activism and commitment to social justice make him a respected leader in his state.
Jeremy Cooney (New York State Senate, 56th District) – The first Asian American state senator from Upstate New York, Cooney focuses on issues like middle-class tax relief, reproductive rights, and public safety.
He has played a major role in bringing semiconductor jobs to New York through the New York CHIPS Act and recently became Chair of the Transportation Committee, where he pushes for modern infrastructure and high-speed rail.
Local Representation: Building Change on the Ground
Indian American and South Asian candidates are also making strides at the local level, addressing issues that directly impact community life, from housing to educational reform.
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Pavan Parikh (Hamilton County Clerk of Courts, Ohio) – As Clerk of Courts, Parikh has introduced numerous reforms to enhance transparency and accessibility in the court system. His initiatives include streamlining civil protection orders and expanding translation services, improving legal system access for underserved communities.
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Zohran Mamdani (New York State Assembly, District 36) – A democratic socialist and a vocal advocate for rent control, Mamdani has pushed for fare-free public transit and affordable housing measures. His bold policy stances and support for marginalized communities make him a unique figure in New York politics.
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Nithya Raman (Los Angeles City Council) and Tara Sreekrishnan (California State Assembly, District 26) are also running for re-election, focusing on issues like affordable housing, homelessness, and sustainable urban planning.
Building Momentum Across the Nation
Indian American and South Asian candidates are making significant strides in the 2024 U.S. elections, with involvement spreading across Texas, Illinois, and Virginia. In Texas, Ashika Ganguly and Ramesh Premkumar are running for city council, while Karthik Soora and Suleman Lalani are campaigning for state legislature seats.
In Virginia, Danny Avula is running for mayor of Richmond, and in Washington, Manka Dhingra seeks the Attorney General’s office. These candidates are advocating for inclusive policies that address the needs of diverse communities.
A New Era of Representation
These candidates showcase the growing political engagement of Indian Americans and South Asians across all levels of government. Their involvement represents a broader shift in U.S. politics, with diverse voices shaping policy on issues like healthcare, education, and public safety.
As the 2024 elections approach, they aim to create lasting change by advancing inclusivity, equality, and justice for all. Through their efforts, they are fostering a more equitable and representative political landscape.