Washington: Indian Americans Ash Kalra, Niraj Antani and Jay Chaudhari tasted sweet victory in their respective election races on November 8. A democratic city councilman in San Jose, Kalra was in the hopes of winning a spot in the 27th state Assembly district against fellow Democrat Madison Nguyen. With a lead of over 4,000, until Nguyen finally conceded the election. "I want to thank Madison for her many years of service to the city of San Jose and for her commitment to continuing her service. I know she will continue to find ways to give back to our community and I look forward to working with her, particularly on our shared goals of ensuring every child has a quality education," Kalra said in a statement released after his victory.
He added, "Words do not do justice to my feelings of gratitude to the voters of San Jose who have given me the great privilege of continuing in my service as your next state Assembly member. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity and am honoured by your faith in me." Before serving on the San Jose city council, Kalra was an attorney for the Santa Clara County Public Defender's Office where he spent time in drug treatment court.
Niraj Antani, 25, voted as the second most influential Republican under 30, was seeking re-election as a state representative in Ohio's 42nd District. Competing against Democrat Patrick Merris in the Republican district, Antani won by receiving 63 per cent of the vote. "I am truly honoured to have been re-elected as the state representative for the 42nd Ohio House District," he said. "I look forward to returning to the Ohio House of Representative as its only Indian American member, and continuing my fight for the American Dream." Releasing a statement, Antani said he is proud of the progress he and his district have made. "I think I've been able to be effective for my community. The legislature has been able to cut taxes, prevent overall increased spending and increase education spending. I am looking forward to continuing my fight in the Ohio House of Representatives so that all Ohioans can have the opportunity to achieve their American Dream."
Against Republican businessman Eric Weaver, Democrat Jay Chaudhari held his seat by winning 65 per cent to 35 per cent. Writing a Facebook post following the victory, Chaudhari said, "Yes, the last 48 hours have been really hard for Democrats. But, we must respect the integrity of our election process. Let us move forward. And, let us roll up our sleeves to do the hard work on behalf of all Americans and all North Carolinians."
Other Indian-Americans to leave an impression on the fateful elections were Pramilla Malick, Neil Makhija, and Mudita Bhargava.
