Virginia’s upcoming Jan. 7 special election for the House of Delegates’ District 26 seat will feature two Indian American candidates: Democrat JJ Singh and Republican Ram Venkatachalam. The result of this election could significantly impact the balance of power in the Virginia state legislature.
JJ Singh, born to Indian immigrants, has a distinguished background in public service, including roles in the White House and as an Economic Policy Advisor to Senator Chris Coons. A University of Virginia graduate and the first turbaned Sikh in the U.S. Peace Corps, Singh currently serves on the Loudoun County Economic Development Advisory Commission and is an active member of the local Democratic Committee. He lives with his wife and two daughters in Loudoun County.
Ram Venkatachalam, a private-sector consultant, aims to bring pragmatic solutions to Richmond. He has chaired the Loudoun County Transit Advisory Board and currently serves on the Science Museum of Virginia’s Board of Trustees. Venkatachalam emphasizes preventing “radical politicians” from impacting the community and lives in District 26 with his wife and two young children.
The stakes are high: Democrats hold a narrow majority (21-19) in the Senate and a 51-49 edge in the House. A Republican victory could lead to a power shift in Richmond, with Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears holding tie-breaking authority.
