NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Duluth, GA, June 9, 2026: As Georgia’s election season gains momentum, several first-time and community-focused candidates are bringing new energy and representation to local races.
Following the May primary elections, Rahul Garabadu and Ruwa Romman are headed to a runoff election on June 16 for Georgia Senate District 7. Early voting in the runoff is already under way, with voters able to cast ballots through Friday, June 12, or on Election Day, Tuesday, June 16.
Meanwhile, Michelle Kang, candidate for House District 99, secured victory in her primary and continues to engage with residents across the district.
Senate District 7 and House District 99 reflect the diversity of Gwinnett County, with Asian, Hispanic, Black, and White communities contributing to the region’s growth and character. Many residents believe that this diversity should also be reflected in elected leadership.
To help voters learn more about the candidates, Vaisheshi Jalajam, co-founder of Ahimsa–End Gun Violence, hosted a meet-and-greet at her home. The event brought together neighbors, families, and community members for an open discussion about issues affecting the district.
The event focused on Democratic candidates seeking office in Gwinnett County ahead of the June 16 runoff election.
The gathering reflected the rich diversity of the community. Attendees included members of Indian, Korean, Chinese, Indonesian, African American, and White communities. People of different faiths, including Hindus, Muslims, and Christians, came together for the discussion. The event also drew many young and first-time voters who were eager to learn more about the candidates and the issues shaping their future.
Rahul Garabadu, a civil rights attorney, spoke about his work challenging Georgia’s redistricting maps and advocating for fair representation. During his remarks, he discussed the rising cost of living, healthcare, and the impact of redistricting on local communities. He emphasized the importance of protecting voting rights and ensuring that all communities have a voice in government. If elected, Garabadu would become the first Indian American elected to the Georgia State Senate.
Michelle Kang shared her reasons for running for office and discussed her priorities for House District 99. A mother of three, former business owner, and nonprofit CEO, Kang earned a master’s degree in public administration from UGA. She has also championed cultural engagement in the district through the Suwanee Asian Festival, which she founded in 2023. During the event, she spoke about lowering the cost of living, expanding access to Medicaid, and investing public funds in programs that benefit Georgia residents. She challenged attendees to consider whether taxpayer dollars should remain unused while communities continue to face pressing needs.
Both candidates shared not only their policy priorities but also the personal experiences and values that inspired them to seek public office.
Following the candidates’ presentations, the floor was opened for questions from attendees.
One of the evening’s most memorable moments came from Tanay Gajawada, a rising sixth-grade student, who asked, “How can underage children vote? How can we bring change?” His question brought laughter to the room while also highlighting the interest that young people have in civic engagement and public service.
The question prompted a thoughtful response from Astrid Ross, a former candidate for Senate District 7 and an educator with more than 30 years of experience. She endorsed Rahul Garabadu for Senate District 7 and spoke about the importance of civic engagement among young people. Ross shared that students frequently ask questions about government, elections, and how they can make a difference in their communities. She encouraged students to stay informed, volunteer, speak up on issues they care about, and understand that civic participation begins long before a person is old enough to vote.
Community members also raised questions about issues affecting Asian American communities, including gun violence, burglaries in Asian neighborhoods, public safety, healthcare, and the impact of redistricting on representation.
The event demonstrated the value of direct conversations between candidates and voters. As Georgia’s election season continues, community gatherings such as these provide residents with an opportunity to learn about the issues, ask questions, and participate in the democratic process.
The strong turnout, diverse audience, and active discussion reflected growing interest in local elections and a shared desire for leadership that reflects and understands the communities it serves.
