Ashwin Ramaswami, born in 1997, has made history as the first Gen Z Indian-American to enter the race for the State Senate seat in Georgia. Running under the Democratic Party banner, his campaign focuses on key issues such as education, job creation, and healthcare accessibility.
Representing a new wave of young politicians within the Indian-American community, Ramaswami's candidacy signals a shift towards youth engagement in politics. Hailing from immigrant parents who migrated from Tamil Nadu in the 1990s, he embodies the spirit of the Generation Z cohort, born between 1997 and 2012.
In an interview with PTI, Ramaswami expressed his motivation for running, emphasizing his desire to contribute positively to his community and ensure equal opportunities for all. With a background in software engineering, election security, and technology law and policy research, he brings a unique perspective to the political arena.
Ramaswami's campaign platform prioritizes issues such as education, job creation, healthcare access, and reproductive rights. His candidacy seeks to address the needs of diverse communities and promote inclusive policies that benefit all residents of Georgia.
"I want to make sure we have a new voice, people who are young, who come from unconventional backgrounds in politics because it's really important that we have people who represent us, not just people who can afford to do it,” he said.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Ramaswami acknowledges the influence of his Indian heritage and upbringing on his values and beliefs. He attributes his interest in Indian culture, philosophy, and spirituality to his upbringing and education, highlighting the importance of embracing one's cultural identity while engaging with broader societal issues.
With a track record of public service and advocacy, including work with non-profits, startups, and government agencies, Ramaswami brings a wealth of experience to his campaign. His tenure at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) underscores his commitment to safeguarding democratic processes and ensuring the integrity of elections.
As a representative of the Gen Z generation, Ramaswami recognizes the importance of political engagement and activism among young people. Despite facing challenges associated with age and resources, he remains determined to make a difference and advocate for meaningful change.
Ramaswami's candidacy represents a new chapter in Georgia politics, characterized by diversity, innovation, and a commitment to social progress. With his vision and dedication, he seeks to build a brighter future for all residents of Georgia, regardless of background or circumstance.
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