Indian-American candidate Ravin Sheth is preparing for his first congressional campaign, setting up a high-profile contest against veteran lawmaker Pramila Jayapal in Washington state’s congressional district. The November election will feature two candidates of Indian heritage competing for the same seat, drawing attention from both political observers and the Indian-American community.
Sheth, 40, was born and raised in Ahmedabad before relocating to the United States in 2008 to pursue higher education in computer and electrical engineering. His academic journey eventually led him to public service, where he enlisted in the US Marine Corps in 2011 and worked as an aircraft mechanic.
After completing his military service, Sheth briefly served as a police officer in Lakewood, Washington. However, injuries sustained during his time in the Marines forced him to step away from law enforcement, prompting him to pursue other professional opportunities.
His decision to enter politics came in 2023 following a series of break-ins at businesses he owned in Washington state. Sheth has said those incidents, combined with his dissatisfaction with government leadership, motivated him to seek public office. He has argued that stronger leadership and policy changes are needed to address issues affecting local communities and business owners.
Despite his enthusiasm, Sheth faces a significant electoral challenge. The congressional district, which includes Seattle and surrounding communities, has consistently favored Democratic candidates. Pramila Jayapal has represented the district in Congress since 2016 and has secured multiple election victories, making her a well-established incumbent.
The upcoming election is expected to draw considerable interest because it pits two Indian-American candidates with very different political perspectives against one another. While Jayapal seeks another term based on her legislative experience and established support, Sheth is campaigning as a political newcomer hoping to offer voters an alternative vision for the district.
Political analysts believe the district’s voting history gives Jayapal a clear advantage, but Sheth’s candidacy reflects the growing participation of Indian-Americans across the political spectrum in US elections. The race also highlights the increasing visibility and influence of the Indian-American community in American public life as more candidates of Indian origin seek elected office at the local, state, and federal levels.
