Krystle Kaul, a national security expert of Kashmiri origin, has announced her candidacy for the US House of Representatives from Virginia’s 10th Congressional District. Her campaign, rooted in the Democratic Party, prioritizes key issues like public safety, education, and healthcare. If successful in the 2024 elections, Kaul would be the second Indian-American woman in the House of Representatives, following Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. Notably, Susheela Jayapal, Pramila’s sister, has also entered the race for Congress from Oregon’s third Congressional District.
Fluent in eight languages, including Hindi, Punjabi, Dari, Urdu, and Arabic, Kaul is the first Kashmiri-origin individual to run for Congress. Drawing from her extensive background in the national security sector, spanning the Pentagon, think tanks, and the defense industry, Kaul’s candidacy brings a unique perspective.
Education, healthcare, and public safety form the core pillars of Kaul’s campaign. Her focus on affordable and accessible healthcare aims to benefit small business owners, emphasizing concerns related to prescription drugs and specialist care. Additionally, ensuring safe neighborhoods, schools, and communities aligns with her commitment to public safety.
The 10th Congressional District in Virginia, with a significant Indian American and South Asian population, provides a strategic platform for Kaul’s candidacy. Her strong background in national security reflects in her commitment to a robust stance on counter-terrorism. Inspired by her father’s narratives about the Kashmir conflict during her childhood, Kaul expresses a profound interest in understanding and addressing issues in the region.
Kaul’s path to Congress started with a commitment to studying diplomacy, negotiation, political science, and conflict resolution, evident in her pursuit of three degrees. Her comprehensive approach to national and international issues reflects her commitment to a holistic understanding of governance.
