In the recent U.S. midterm elections, six Indian Americans have achieved victory in races for the House of Representatives, marking an increase from five representatives in the previous Congress and reinforcing the influence of the “Samosa Caucus,” an informal group of Indian American lawmakers.
This expansion reflects both the growing representation of the Indian American community in American politics and the rising impact of the diaspora in shaping the legislative landscape.
New Addition from Virginia’s 10th District: Suhas Subramanyam
I am honored and humbled that the people of Virginia’s 10th District put their trust in me to take on the toughest fights and deliver results in Congress. This district is my home. I got married here, my wife Miranda and I are raising our daughters here, and the issues our… pic.twitter.com/rV1Kez0Evn
— Suhas Subramanyam (@SuhasforVA) November 6, 2024
Suhas Subramanyam, a Virginia State Senator and lawyer, made history by becoming the first Indian American elected to represent Virginia’s 10th District and the entire East Coast. Running as a Democrat, Subramanyam defeated his Republican opponent, Mike Clancy. In a statement following his win, Subramanyam said, “I am honored and humbled that the people of Virginia’s 10th District put their trust in me to take on the toughest fights and deliver results in Congress.”
Subramanyam emphasized his personal connection to the district, mentioning that he and his wife Miranda are raising their daughters in the area, further noting, “It is an honor to continue serving this district in Washington.”
Subramanyam previously served as an advisor to President Barack Obama and is widely recognized among Indian Americans nationwide. His election underscores his commitment to public service and the issues that matter most to his community.
Dr. Amish Shah, running in Arizona’s 1st Congressional District, is another potential addition to the House of Representatives. With a slight lead over his Republican opponent David Schweikert, Shah’s final victory would bring the Indian American representation in Congress to an unprecedented seven members, demonstrating the community’s political mobilization and influence.
Re-election of Prominent Members of the Samosa Caucus
The five incumbent Indian American representatives were re-elected to the House, securing their positions for the upcoming term. Here is an overview of each:
- Ami Bera: Representing California’s 6th Congressional District since 2013, Dr. Ami Bera, a physician by profession, is the senior-most Indian American Congressman. His recent win marks his seventh consecutive term, solidifying his stature in the House and his dedication to healthcare, economic growth, and equality.
- Raja Krishnamoorthi: Serving Illinois’ 8th Congressional District, Krishnamoorthi achieved his fifth consecutive win. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “My parents came to this country with little more than a dream for their family’s future and the faith that they could achieve it here in America.” He added, “My mission in Congress is to fight for all the other families that are pursuing their dreams, no matter where they come from, how they worship, or the number of letters in their names… there are 29 in mine.”
- Ro Khanna: Representing California’s 17th Congressional District, Khanna is well-known for his advocacy on issues like economic reform, technology, and immigration. His re-election is indicative of the strong support he continues to garner from his constituents.
- Pramila Jayapal: Jayapal, representing Washington’s 7th Congressional District, has been a vocal advocate for progressive values, including social justice, economic equity, and immigrant rights. Her re-election underscores the importance of her role within Congress and her commitment to representing marginalized communities.
- Shri Thanedar: Thanedar, re-elected for his second term representing Michigan’s 13th Congressional District, continues his work on economic and social issues. Thanedar’s story resonates with many as a journey from an immigrant background to becoming a key player in American politics.
Celebrations Amid Tight U.S. Elections
The re-election of these five leaders, along with Subramanyam’s and possibly Shah’s victories, has infused the Indian American community with pride and optimism. At Vice President Kamala Harris’s watch party in Washington, American flags were waved by attendees while initial results streamed in. As election tallies favored Trump in several critical swing states, the atmosphere shifted from excitement to tension as the prospects for Harris’s victory seemed to dwindle.
Impact and International Response
The Indian American community’s success in the House election reflects not only their integration into the American political landscape but also their growing influence on issues ranging from immigration reform to healthcare and economic growth. This trend of increased representation is expected to positively impact bilateral ties between the U.S. and India. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a long-time advocate for strong U.S.-India relations, hailed the election outcomes as a promising sign for continued collaboration.
The Path Forward
With challenges like economic reform, healthcare access, and immigration at the forefront of their agendas, these Indian American representatives are poised to bring critical perspectives to Congress. As Krishnamoorthi remarked, their shared mission is to support “all families that are pursuing their dreams, no matter where they come from.” As the Indian American community continues to grow and influence the political sphere, the 2024 election results signify a remarkable moment for representation, diversity, and the future of U.S. politics.
