Puja Khanna, Kannan Srinivasan, and Sreedhar Nagireddi are running campaigns in Loudoun County, each addressing issues important to their communities.

Three Indian Americans are entering special election races in Virginia, aiming to influence local politics and boost representation for the Asian American community. Puja Khanna, Kannan Srinivasan, and Sreedhar Nagireddi are each focusing on issues that resonate with residents of Loudoun County.

Puja Khanna Takes on Dulles District Incumbent

Puja Khanna, a mental health advocate and business owner, is running as a Democrat for the Dulles District supervisor seat. If she wins, Khanna would become the first Asian American member of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors. She’s challenging Republican incumbent Supervisor Matthew Letourneau, often called “Metro Matt” for his support of the Silver Line extension, though he has not yet announced plans for a 2023 re-election bid.

Khanna, an Indian immigrant with 20 years of residence in Virginia, stresses the need for leadership that reflects the community’s diversity. "It’s time for the Dulles District to have representation that aligns with its values and demographics," she stated. With the Asian Pacific Islander community making up over 20% of Loudoun’s population per the 2020 Census, Khanna is dedicated to addressing the distinct needs of immigrant families.

Kannan Srinivasan Aims for Virginia Senate

Kannan Srinivasan, currently a Virginia House Delegate, is running for the 32nd Senate District seat to replace State Senator Suhas Subramanyam, who recently moved to the U.S. House. As the first Indian American immigrant elected to the Virginia House, Srinivasan is committed to preserving the narrow Democratic majority in the state Senate.

Backed by endorsements from figures like Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger and Virginia House Speaker Don Scott, Srinivasan’s campaign focuses on reproductive rights, healthcare, gun safety, and resisting what he describes as “Trump-era extremism.” He emphasized the race’s importance, stating, “We can’t let Trump take over the Virginia State Senate.” His supporters, including Scott and Subramanyam, have commended his dedication to Democratic values and his electoral track record.

Sreedhar Nagireddi Seeks House District 26 Seat

Sreedhar Nagireddi, an IT professional and active community volunteer, is competing in the Democratic primary for House District 26. Nagireddi, who works at Lockheed Martin, points to his experience on state and local boards as key qualifications. He highlights infrastructure, transportation, education, and clean energy as priorities to ensure District 26 residents' voices are heard.