Virginia, 8 January 2025: Two Indian Americans secured victories in Virginia’s special legislative elections, helping Democrats retain a narrow majority in both chambers despite Republican momentum in the 2024 elections.
Kannan Srinivasan won a seat in the State Senate, while J.J. Singh claimed a position in the State House of Delegates. The special elections on Wednesday marked significant milestones, with Singh likely becoming the first turbaned legislator in the United States.
Srinivasan fills a Senate vacancy left by Suhas Subramanyam, who won a congressional seat in November. Meanwhile, Singh takes over the House seat previously held by Srinivasan. Republican candidate Ram Venkatachalam also contested but lost to Singh.
Originally from Tamil Nadu, Srinivasan emigrated to the United States after working as a chartered accountant in India. With a 30-year career in business and finance, he transitioned to politics, joining the Virginia House of Delegates in 2023. His Senate win brings him alongside fellow Indian American Ghazala Hashmi, a Hyderabad-born Democrat, in the chamber.
Singh, a Virginia native with a distinguished background in public service, served in the White House Office of Management and Budget under Barack Obama. His career includes roles as a Peace Corps volunteer in Bolivia and as a senior advisor in the U.S. Senate.
The elections held high stakes for Democrats, who had a razor-thin majority in a state governed by a Republican. National attention centered on Virginia after Democrats, grappling with internal challenges and President Joe Biden’s declining approval, faced increasing Republican pressure.
Vice President Kamala Harris played a prominent role in rallying Democratic support, particularly after stepping up as a leading figure for the party. Despite challenges, Democratic campaigns outspent Republican rivals to secure their victories in these critical contests.
