What Republicans Said

Dino Teppara, Legislative Assistant, Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC)

Dino Teppara Whether you are a Democrat or a Republican, Bobby Jindal’s election to Congress is a win for our community. We should be very proud of Congressman-elect Jindal’s successes thus far in politics. He is a dedicated public servant. This is truly an historic moment for us, and I know we will all wish Mr. Jindal the very best as a Member of Congress. As I came to Capitol Hill with a freshman Congressman in 2001, I have seen firsthand what it takes to have an immediate impact in the U.S. House. Congressman Joe Wilson established a Political Action Committee (PAC), and in the past three years, he has raised an enormous amount of money for other candidates. He was very active on caucuses and House organizations such as the Republican Study Committee, House Policy Committee, and he was assigned to a leadership position as an Assistant Majority Whip. He took the initiative to introduce important legislation and he was able to get bills signed into law. So if Bobby Jindal establishes himself as a team player, continues to fundraise and takes the lead on important legislation, he will have an immediate impact in Congress.

Dr. Sampat Shivangi, Vice Chair, Indian American Republican Council

Dino Teppara Bobby Jindal’s was expected to win and he won with an enormous margin. To see an Indian in the U.S. Congress is a great feeling, as it feels to see one in any office. He has made us all proud. He has created a path for younger Indian Americans to emulate. Another aspect to it is that because of his health care experience he may get a Subcommittee Chair on health. And when Rep. Joe Wilson retires as Chair of the India Caucus, Bobby is an ideal choice to take it over. It seems appropriate. He has no boundaries and can go as high as he wants.

What Democrats Said

Kumar Barve, Majority Leader, Maryland House of Delegates

Kumar Barve I want to congratulate him (Jindal) for his victory and look forward to his standing up for the Indian American community. Specifically, I hope he can join all of us in opposing the proposed sale of F-16s aircraft to Pakistan. And he will be effective in securing appointments for the Indian Americans who supported President Bush in this election.

Dr. Ramesh Kapur, Chairman, Indo-American Leadership Council, Democratic National Committee

Kumar Barve It’s great to see the Jindal victory. I am very happy we have someone in the House. Hopefully, the Indian issues will be helped by him being there. And I hope he also mentors others to run for office, to follow him. And down the road he could run for Senate.