Washington, Jan 28 (NationPress) Emphasizing a need for a return to “duty and decency” in governance, Indian American candidate Rakhi Israni announced her candidacy for Congress, aiming to re-engage communities that feel alienated from the decisions impacting their everyday lives, including issues of affordability and healthcare.

Israni, who disclosed her intention to run last week, indicated that her decision came after years dedicated to service and policy, during a period when she perceives public discussions as having diverged from addressing genuine challenges.

“Problems remain unresolved,” Israni expressed to IANS in an exclusive interview, pointing out that despite escalating political discourse, the quality of life has worsened and is increasingly disconnected from the populace's worries. Her campaign managed to secure over USD 1 million within the first 24 hours post-announcement.

She noted that her decision to enter the race rapidly crystallized after the seat in California’s 14th Congressional District became vacant. This district is currently represented by Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell, who is campaigning for governor. “This opportunity arose, and I was urged to run for it,” she explained, describing her move as sudden yet essential for “awakening the community” and fostering enhanced participation in policymaking.

As a mother of four, an attorney, entrepreneur, and educator, Israni underscored how her family and service have influenced her decisions. Her engagement in critical issues like food insecurity, homelessness, housing, and affordability has led her to believe that she could effect significant change by seeking a federal position.

Regarding the 14th District, Israni detailed that it encompasses areas of the Bay Area, including Fremont, Hayward, Pleasanton, Livermore, and Dublin, which have a substantial Indian American presence.

She remarked that the district is approximately 40 percent Asian and hosts one of the largest populations of Indian registered voters in the nation. The district is characterized by its educated demographic, with above-average income and home ownership, where families prioritize stability and opportunities for their children.

On her campaign objectives, Israni emphasized the importance of returning focus to quality of life. “The primary focus is to re-establish attention to the quality of life for our residents,” she mentioned, highlighting the escalating cost of living, affordability, and access to essential services like healthcare.

Her approach has been molded by engaging with those affected by policies and identifying where changes could most benefit families.

Addressing a series of inquiries, Israni criticized Congress's recent operational methods, stating that policymaking has increasingly revolved around “social media retweets or likes” instead of genuine solutions. She indicated that politics has catered to “the noisier few,” leaving many feeling neglected. “Most individuals simply wish to be heard,” she asserted, indicating the necessity of restoring duty and decency to rebuild trust.

Regarding competition in the race, Israni identified her primary challenge as those who favor the status quo and wish to dictate how others should live or think. She hopes that voters will become more engaged with policies and their long-term implications, particularly for children and future generations.

On matters of foreign policy, Israni stated that her primary responsibility as a Congressional member would be to enhance life in her district, yet she views strong US-India relations as vital, especially given the district’s closeness to Silicon Valley. She believes that strengthening ties between “the two largest democracies in the world” is crucial for the technology sector and the broader welfare of the local populace.

Israni reported that her campaign raised $1 million within the initial 24 hours, drawing support from across the nation. She emphasized that the enthusiasm extends beyond fundraising, with numerous supporters eager to engage in the political process and have their voices heard. Local officials have started reaching out, with Jeff Rosen being the first public endorser of her campaign.

Clarifying her values, Israni identified herself as a “dharmic” candidate, using the principle of dharma as a decision-making framework focused on duty, service, and addressing challenges. She clarified that this concept is not religion-specific but is rooted in principles that foster harmony and societal improvement for all, irrespective of beliefs or backgrounds.

Israni’s parents immigrated to the USA in 1967 for education and raised their family in Houston, instilling in her a robust sense of community service. Her family is of Sindhi origin, with roots in Uttar Pradesh and Bombay, and her upbringing continues to influence her dedication to public service.

Currently, there are six Indian Americans in the House of Representatives. Should she be elected, Israni would become the seventh Indian American member of Congress and only the second Indian American woman to serve in the House, reflecting the community’s growing engagement in national public life.