New Jersey, USA: Congressman Ro Khanna has endorsed Virginia State Senator Ghazala Hashmi and Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla in their bids for higher political offices, emphasizing the importance of Indian American representation in U.S. leadership.

Hashmi is running for Virginia's Lieutenant Governor, aiming to become the first Asian American in the role. Known for her progressive work in education and healthcare, she was the first Muslim woman elected to the Virginia Senate and chairs its Education and Health Committee. If elected, she would also be Virginia's first Muslim and South Asian statewide officeholder.

Bhalla, New Jersey's first Sikh mayor, is campaigning for a seat in the state’s 32nd Assembly District. A civil rights lawyer with a history of community advocacy, Bhalla has announced he will not seek re-election as Hoboken's mayor when his term ends in 2025, shifting focus to state politics.

Khanna's endorsements highlight the growing influence of Indian American leaders in shaping a more diverse and inclusive political landscape.