Press Release

Indian American Impact Congratulates Endorsed Candidates on Historic Wins in California

For Immediate Release:
March 12, 2024
Contact: Sarah Shah
sarah@iaimpact.org

California — Even as results continue to take shape following last Tuesday’s election, Indian American Impact proudly announces historic victories for its endorsed candidates in California. Tara Sreekrishnan in AD-26 and Darshana Patel in AD-76 will both advance to the general election. The current top vote-getter in her race, Nithya Raman in LA City Council District 4 will likely either win her election outright or advance to a general election in November. 

With more than 900,000 South Asians residing in California, these victories reflect the growing influence of South Asian Americans in American politics. Since its inception in 2016, Indian American Impact has endorsed and supported 166 candidates across the country, contributing to the historic rise of Indian and South Asian American representation in politics. Through strategic investments and grassroots organizing, Impact has marshaled upwards of $20 million to candidates and robust voter mobilization and policy advocacy efforts, amplifying the voices of South Asian Americans and driving positive change in communities nationwide.

Taher Hasanali, Indian American Impact’s National Political Director, shared the following statement: 

“South Asian Americans are ascending to positions of leadership in public service at an extraordinary rate, and California stands as a prime example. With more than 900,000 South Asians calling California home – the highest in the nation – we’re thrilled to see increased representation at all levels of government. 

Indian American Impact extends its deepest congratulations to Darshana Patel and Tara Sreekrishnan on their victories, and looks forward to supporting their continued campaigns in the months ahead. Each of these trailblazers is committed to championing our community’s priorities such as public education and increasing access to healthcare. Their unwavering commitment promises to enhance the lives of all Californians.”

Across California, Big Wins for Indian American Impact’s Endorsed Candidates:

  • Darshana Patel in AD-76
    • Seeking to represent a district with nearly 19,000 South Asian residents, Darshana Patel was first elected to the Poway School Board in 2016 and serves as the president of the San Diego County School Boards Association. Her experiences and commitment to fully funding public education resonates deeply with our community, and Impact is thrilled to support her in the general election. 
  • Tara Sreekrishnan in AD-26
    • Home to more than 73,000 South Asians, Assembly District 26 boasts the second-highest concentration of South Asians in the state. If elected in November,  Sreekrishnan would be the only Asian American woman to represent the Bay Area and the first woman to represent this district in fifteen years. An elected member of the Santa Clara County Board of Education and a legislative director in the California State Senate, Sreekrishnan brings a wealth of policy expertise that uniquely positions her to excel in the California Assembly. 

Endorsed Candidate Races Still Too Early or Close to Call:

  • Nithya Raman in LA City Council District 4, currently the top vote-getter
    • In 2020, Nithya Raman made history as the first South Asian ever elected to the LA City Council. We’re thrilled to see her reelected and continue to represent the largest city council district in the country with ~260,000 residents. In addition to co-founding a group called SELAH that supports unhoused individuals on a neighborhood and encampment level, Raman has spearheaded initiatives to transform the district’s approach to homelessness. In her first year on city council, her district saw the first reduction in Homeless Count since 2016.

Impact also endorsed and supported Angelo Farooq in SD-31. While he came up short in his election, we congratulate him on a well-fought campaign and thank him for their leadership and commitment to public service.

Indian American Impact is a national 501(c)(4) organization that elevates the voices of Indian Americans and South Asians to ensure that every level of government represents us and our values. Impact works to mobilize, engage, and elect South Asians in an effort to build a world in which all Americans have the opportunity to thrive.