Indian American Gautam Bhatia has been elected as an at-large trustee on the Naperville Township board in DuPage County, Illinois. In addition to his personal victory, Bhatia celebrated a broader Democratic success across the cities of Aurora and Naperville. He highlighted the election of Ashfaq Syed, who became the first Indian American city council member in the area. Bhatia has served with the Naperville Township Democrats since 2018, beginning as a precinct committee member before stepping into the role of chair.
The township’s board consists of four trustees and one supervisor vote. Trustees are responsible for key decisions like approving yearly budgets, tax levies, bills, and financial plans for community programs.
Balancing his work as a cybersecurity expert, Bhatia still chose to run for public office. He said the decision required careful consideration, especially since the role demands time during working hours. His involvement wasn’t limited to his own campaign; he actively supported other Democratic candidates across local races in Aurora and Naperville. He handled tasks ranging from strategic planning and early endorsements to organizing voter events, managing precinct data, and raising awareness through signs and outreach initiatives.
For the past five years, Bhatia has been instrumental in helping various candidates for local, state, and federal offices—from city councils to congressional seats—gain voter support.
His campaign reached beyond Indian American voters, aiming to involve young and first-time voters. He stressed the importance of data-driven engagement and collaboration with neighboring Democratic groups for stronger community impact.
Bhatia, who arrived in the US in 1990 to study computer science, math, and physics at Augustana College, moved to Aurora-Naperville in 2008. Since then, he’s been deeply involved in cultural and civic efforts, forging connections with elected leaders, nonprofits, and business professionals in the Indian American community.
He emphasized the increasing number of Indian Americans stepping into public roles. As more community members get elected, Bhatia believes it will inspire others to seek leadership positions and help ensure their voices are heard.
He also led Aurora’s Indian American outreach board between 2015 and 2019, launching student scholarships and hosting events on mental health and diversity, strengthening the bond between the community and civic institutions.
