Ashwin Ramaswami, an expert in software engineering, election security, and technology law, is the first Indian-American from Generation Z to hold a state or federal legislative seat in the United States.
Ramaswami’s candidacy, as a member of Generation Z (those born between 1997 and 2012), represents a substantial shift in American political representation.
Ramaswami, a Democratic candidate, aspires to serve diverse areas in Georgia’s 48th district, including Johns Creek, Suwanee, Alpharetta, Cumming, Sugar Hill, and Buford, with a focus on community service.
He opposes Republican incumbent Shawn Still, whose involvement in dubious events related to the 2020 election complicates the race.
Ramaswami was born to immigrant parents from Tamil Nadu and represents a mix of Indian heritage with American beliefs, WION reported.
“I’m the child of immigrants, but I was born and raised in Johns Creek,” the 24-year-old Senate candidate told The Stanford Daily. “For a long time, I was interested in how I could give back to my community. I didn’t want to stay in the Bay. I wanted to come and give back.”
“I have strong ties. I’d also break barriers in terms of being the first Indian American and Gen Z member of the Georgia State Senate. So I’d bring a new voice to politics,” he added.
Ramaswami, despite his age and political inexperience, has chosen to engage in politics to tackle societal issues like education, job creation, healthcare access, and public safety.