Taral V Patel, an Indian American policy expert who is currently working with the Biden administration in Washington DC on domestic US policy issues, has announced his candidacy for commissioner in Fort Bend County, Texas, precinct 3. The 29-year-old Democrat is aiming to win the seat currently held by longtime Republican Commissioner Andy Meyers and hopes to establish Fort Bend as a forward-thinking stronghold in Texas.
Patel took to Twitter earlier this week to share his campaign announcement, stating, “I’m announcing my campaign for Fort Bend County Commissioner. Together, we can push past the divisive politics that we see in the news — and build a stronger, diverse, & more united Fort Bend.”
In a campaign video, Patel is seen driving around the precinct and engaging with local residents. His platform includes promises to address various issues, such as fixing potholes within 24 hours, expanding healthcare access, ensuring child safety, providing better compensation for first responders, supporting families with childcare, advocating for reproductive freedom, lowering property taxes, promoting clean energy jobs, and fostering unity in the diverse community.
As a county commissioner, Patel would be responsible for overseeing the county’s management and administration, representing county interests at the state and federal level, participating in long-range planning, and managing the county budget and finances.
Patel’s election website describes him as a lifelong public servant with experience in local, state, and federal government, as well as the private sector. It highlights his contributions to Fort Bend County during challenging times, including successfully navigating flooding incidents, the Covid-19 pandemic, winter storm Uri, electric grid failure, droughts, and other emergencies. The website also emphasizes Patel’s efforts in bringing good-paying jobs to the county, making investments in public safety and emergency management programs, and addressing traffic congestion.
Having worked in various political roles, Patel served as the youngest chief of staff for Fort Bend County’s judge’s office when Indian American KP George was elected as judge. He has been involved in several political campaigns, including those of Mayor Bill White, Senator Rodney Ellis, and Wendy Davis.
Patel’s parents immigrated to the US from India in the 1980s, and he grew up in Greater Houston, attending Cinco Ranch High School and graduating from the University of Texas at Austin in 2016. He was appointed by President Joe Biden in 2021 to serve as a liaison for the White House and has also served as a Law Clerk for the Department of Justice Criminal Division, specializing in fighting corruption, bribery, and other crimes. The Democratic primary election for Fort Bend County commissioner is scheduled for March 5, 2024.
