In a historic U.S. election, six Indian-American lawmakers, including Suhas Subramanyam and Pramila Jayapal, won seats in Congress, strengthening the ‘Samosa Caucus’ and highlighting Indian-American influence in U.S. politics.
As the recent U.S. elections unfolded, six Indian-American lawmakers secured their seats in Congress, further strengthening the “Samosa Caucus,” a group of South Asian American legislators known for representing the growing influence of Indian-Americans in U.S. politics, reported Gujarat Samachar.
This election saw both new victories and established members retaining their seats, showcasing a strong presence of Indian-American voices in American governance.
- Suhas Subramanyam: A lawyer from Virginia’s 10th District, Subramanyam became the first Indian-American elected from Virginia. With roots in Bengaluru and Chennai, Subramanyam won with 52.1% of the vote. In a statement, he expressed gratitude to his constituents, promising to advocate on behalf of issues deeply relevant to his family and community.
- Ro Khanna: Winning his second term in California’s 17th Congressional District, Khanna, who has roots in Punjab, has served since 2017. A strong advocate on technology and workforce issues, Khanna defeated his Republican challenger, securing his place as a prominent Indian-American voice in the House.
- Although Arizona’s Democratic candidate Amish Shah narrowly lost, the “Samosa Caucus” remains strong with these six members
- The term “Samosa Caucus” was popularized by Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi in 2018, as a nod to the rich diversity brought by Indian-American legislators
- The phrase celebrates the growing influence of this group in Congress, with each member bringing unique cultural and professional backgrounds to the forefront of American politics
- Shri Thanedar: In Michigan’s 13th Congressional District, Thanedar claimed victory with 68.3% of the vote. A businessman, author, and politician from Karnataka, Thanedar expressed pride in helping constituents on issues like immigration, veterans’ benefits, and tax returns, emphasizing his commitment to community service.
- Pramila Jayapal: Known as the first Indian-American woman in the U.S. House, Jayapal achieved a landslide victory in Washington’s 7th District with 85% of the vote. Her tenure in Congress has been marked by her dedication to progressive causes and immigrant rights.
- Raja Krishnamoorthi: Representing Illinois, Krishnamoorthi won with 56.3% of the vote, defeating his Republican opponent. Originally from New Delhi, he is the first South Asian American to hold a ranking position on a full congressional committee, advocating for economic and educational reforms.
- Ami Bera: A physician and experienced Congressman from California’s 6th District, Bera defeated Christine Bish with 56.8% of the vote. His win solidifies his position as an influential Indian-American leader focused on healthcare and economic issues.
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