Indian American Impact, a group dedicated to empowering South Asian and Indian American communities in the US, has appointed Chintan Patel as its fourth executive director. Patel, an experienced campaign and political strategist, takes over from Neil Makhija, who transitions from the role of third executive director to president. Patel’s leadership will guide Indian American Impact through the upcoming 2024 elections and beyond, as per a statement by Impact.
With more than fifteen years of experience in grassroots organizing and political campaigns, Patel brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. Previously, he served as vice president of Political Affairs at End Citizens United/Let America Vote, where he directed the organization’s political strategy across various races, contributing to the success of over 350 campaigns. Patel also played a key role in building relationships with community stakeholders. Before his tenure at End Citizens United/Let America Vote, he worked as a political consultant, specializing in developing and executing direct mail campaigns, and served as political and field director for multiple campaigns.
Expressing his enthusiasm for his new role, Patel emphasized the importance of the upcoming 2024 elections for Indian and South Asian Americans to have their voices heard in democracy. He looks forward to collaborating with the organization’s staff and board to build on its success and advance the interests of candidates and communities.
Indian American Impact co-founders Deepak Raj and Narendra Mulani expressed their excitement about Patel’s appointment, highlighting his expertise in political strategy, voter mobilization, and candidate support. They emphasized the significant gains Indian Americans have made in representation and the pivotal role they play in elections nationwide.
Since its inception in 2016, Indian American Impact has endorsed 164 candidates across the country, contributing to increased Indian and South Asian American representation in politics. Through substantial financial support to candidates and active voter mobilization efforts, the organization has amplified the voices of South Asian Americans and facilitated positive change in communities across the nation.
