The Countdown to the 2024 US Presidential Elections: A Historic Moment for Indian Americans

As the countdown to the 2024 US Presidential Elections begins, the political landscape is heating up with a close contest anticipated between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Polls indicate a competitive race, reflecting the dramatic shifts in American politics over the years. One notable aspect of this election cycle is the remarkable progress made by Indian Americans, who have not only established a significant presence in Congress—with five representatives currently serving—but also around 40 members in state legislatures across the nation.

This election is particularly intriguing as several prominent Indian Americans are vying for key positions. From the youngest candidate to seasoned politicians, the Indian American community is poised to make its mark in this high-stakes election. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout candidates of Indian origin who are contesting in the upcoming elections.

Ashwin Ramaswami – The Youngest Candidate

Photo Credit: Ashwin Ramaswami @ashwinforga

At just 25 years old, Ashwin Ramaswami is making headlines as the youngest candidate contesting for the Senate seat in Georgia’s District 48. Having just met the age requirement to run, Ramaswami is expected to present a formidable challenge to Republican Shawn Still, a close ally of Donald Trump.

Who is Ashwin Ramaswami?

Born to Indian immigrant parents from Tamil Nadu, Ramaswami grew up in Johns Creek, Georgia. He pursued a degree in Computer Science at Stanford University and later earned a law degree from Georgetown University. While at Georgetown, he actively supported students of various faiths, taught classes on Hindu philosophy, and raised over $100,000 for Dharmic programs.

Ramaswami’s political journey began in 2020, and he has since built a strong background in cybersecurity, having worked with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) for three years before deciding to run for office.

Shri Thanedar – The Entrepreneur-Cum-Politician

Photo Credit: Congressman Shri Thanedar @RepShriThanedar

Shri Thanedar’s journey from a janitor to a successful entrepreneur and now a Congressman is nothing short of inspiring. After immigrating to the US and becoming a citizen in 1988, he faced numerous challenges, including working as a janitor and sometimes sleeping in his car.

Who is Shri Thanedar?

Thanedar represents Michigan’s 13th Congressional District, a crucial area for President Biden’s campaign against Trump. Born in Southern India, he completed his undergraduate and master’s degrees in Chemistry before moving to the US for his PhD at the University of Akron.

After earning his doctorate, Thanedar became a successful entrepreneur, founding companies that developed life-saving pharmaceutical drugs. His contributions to the community earned him recognition as Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year multiple times. In 2018, he ran for Governor of Michigan and later served in the Michigan House of Representatives before being elected to Congress in 2022.

Suhas Subramanyam – The Star Candidate

Photo Credit: Suhas Subramanyam @SuhasforVA

Suhas Subramanyam made history in 2020 as the first Indian American elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. Now, he is aiming for a seat in the US House of Representatives from Virginia’s 10th Congressional District, which has a significant Indian American population.

Who is Suhas Subramanyam?

Born in Houston to Indian parents from Bengaluru, Subramanyam holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Tulane University. He previously served as a White House technology policy advisor under President Barack Obama. If elected, he will become only the seventh Indian American in the House and the first from the East Coast.

Subramanyam’s campaign has been robust, raising $1.2 million and knocking on 50,000 doors to connect with voters. He is set to face Republican Mike Clancy in the upcoming election.

Sandeep Srivastava – The Nawab Candidate

Photo Credit: Sandeep for Congress @sandeepfortexas

Sandeep Srivastava has secured the Democratic nomination for the US House in Texas’ 3rd Congressional District. Having previously run for the same seat in 2022, he is determined to make a comeback and represent his community effectively.

Who is Sandeep Srivastava?

A first-generation immigrant, Srivastava earned his degree from Lucknow University and has a diverse career background, including roles as a broker, data architect, and principal architect. He founded a non-profit organization aimed at helping fellow immigrants transition to life in the US, reflecting his commitment to community service and advocacy.

Conclusion

The 2024 US Presidential Elections are shaping up to be a pivotal moment for Indian Americans, with candidates like Ashwin Ramaswami, Shri Thanedar, Suhas Subramanyam, and Sandeep Srivastava leading the charge. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences not only enrich the political landscape but also inspire a new generation of leaders within the Indian American community. As the elections approach, the impact of these candidates will undoubtedly be felt, showcasing the growing influence of Indian Americans in shaping the future of the United States.