WASHINGTON, D.C.: In a groundbreaking bid for the Georgia State Senate, 24-year-old Indian-American Ashwin Ramaswami has secured a powerful endorsement from U.S. Senator John Ossoff. Ramaswami, a Democrat, is vying for the District 48 seat, aiming to unseat incumbent Republican Senator Sean Still. The stakes are high, as Still faces accusations of attempting to overturn the 2020 election results in Georgia a charge that resonates deeply in the aftermath of the January 6, 2021 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
A Clash of Contrasts
Senator Ossoff highlighted the stark contrast between the two candidates. “Ashwin,” he emphasized, “is a former election security expert running against a MAGA (Make America Great Again) politician accused of participating in an attempt to steal the 2020 election.” The choice, Ossoff contends, is clear: a Gen-Z candidate committed to safeguarding democracy versus an incumbent embroiled in controversy.
Ossoff’s Support and Ramaswami’s Vision
Senator Ossoff’s endorsement carries weight. His achievements in upgrading infrastructure, addressing climate change, and bolstering cybersecurity in Georgia underscore his commitment to progress. Ramaswami expressed gratitude for Ossoff’s support, emphasizing the need to protect these hard-won gains from being eroded by far-right Republicans at the state level. As a member of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (HSGAC), Ossoff’s backing amplifies Ramaswami’s campaign.
The Trailblazing Candidate
Who is Ashwin Ramaswami? Born and raised in Georgia’s District 48, Ramaswami left his election security role at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to challenge Still. His grassroots campaign has already raised over $280,000, outpacing his opponent. If elected, Ramaswami would become the youngest representative in Georgia’s history and the first Indian-American to hold this position in the state.