In a bold move shaking up California’s political landscape, Indian-American Rakhi Israni has thrown her hat into the ring for the 14th Congressional District seat. The announcement came just last week, catching many by surprise in the Bay Area’s competitive political scene.
Israni, speaking candidly about her sudden decision, revealed that the opportunity arose when incumbent Rep. Eric Swalwell opted to run for governor, leaving the seat open. ‘It really happened out of the blue,’ she said. ‘The community urged me to step up, and I’m thrilled to rally people around this cause.’
A mother of four, attorney, entrepreneur, and educator, Israni’s life has been driven by family and service. Last week marked the official launch of her campaign, where she emphasized her commitment to real solutions over rhetoric. ‘Despite deep involvement in community service, problems like food insecurity and homelessness persist,’ she noted. ‘Quality of life is declining, and it’s time for action that matches people’s priorities.’
The 14th District, encompassing Fremont, Hayward, Pleasanton, Livermore, and Dublin, boasts a significant Asian population—around 38-40%—and the highest number of registered Indian voters of any congressional district nationwide. With above-average incomes, homeownership rates, and education levels, residents here prioritize family stability and bright futures for their children.
Israni sees this as the perfect platform to amplify her impact. ‘This district reflects what families want: good lives, happiness, and strong prospects for the next generation,’ she said. As the primary approaches, her campaign is gaining traction among diverse voters eager for fresh leadership focused on practical governance.
