Indian American candidates achieved notable successes in the Nov. 7 local and state elections, highlighting the community’s growing political impact despite representing just over one percent of the U.S. population.
Suhas Subramanyam, re-elected to the Virginia State Senate, previously served two terms in the House of Delegates. A former White House technology policy advisor, he made history as the first Hindu elected to the Virginia House.
Business leader Kannan Srinivasan, an Indian immigrant, won a seat in the Virginia House of Delegates, emphasizing values like inclusivity, women’s rights, gun safety, healthcare, and education.
In Pennsylvania, Democrat Neil Makhija secured a historic position as Montgomery County Commissioner, becoming the first Indian American or Asian American/Pacific Islander to serve in the county’s board of commissioners in its 342-year history.
In New Jersey, Democratic Indian American Vin Gopal won a third term in the State Senate, securing 58% of the vote. He emphasized grassroots efforts and real conversations about the issues facing Monmouth County.
