Indian American Impact Fund Congratulates Ghazala Hashmi on Her Historic Election as Virginia’s First South Asian Lieutenant Governor

Richmond, VA — The Indian American Impact Fund proudly congratulates Ghazala Hashmi on her historic victory in the General Election for Virginia’s Lieutenant Governor. With this win, Hashmi becomes the first Muslim and South Asian American ever elected statewide in Virginia — a milestone for representation, leadership, and progress in the Commonwealth.

As part of its commitment to electing barrier-breaking leaders, Impact invested $175,000 in Ghazala Hashmi’s campaign to mobilize voters and strengthen representation at every level of government.

Chintan Patel, Executive Director of the Indian American Impact Fund, shared the following statement:

“Ghazala Hashmi’s victory is a landmark moment for our community, our Commonwealth, and our democracy. An immigrant, educator, and tireless advocate, she has dedicated her life to expanding opportunity and delivering results for working families across Virginia. From reproductive freedom and affordable healthcare to public education and housing equity, Ghazala Hashmi has led on the issues that matter most to Virginians.

She made history in 2019 with her victory,  flipping a Republican-held seat to help Democrats take control of the State Senate. Tonight she’s made history again as Virginia’s first South Asian American and Muslim Lieutenant Governor. Impact was proud to support her from the very beginning because we knew what was at stake: protecting our rights, defending our communities from MAGA extremism, and expanding opportunity for all who call Virginia home. We look forward to working with Lt. Governor Hashmi in her new role to build a brighter, more representative future for the Commonwealth.”

Since its inception in 2016, Indian American Impact Fund has endorsed and supported 200+ 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 over $25 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.

For Immediate Release:
November 4th, 2025

Contact: Sarah Shah
digital@iaimpact.org