Amish Shah Loses Congressional Seat To Republican Incumbent

India-West News Desk

PHOENIX, AZ – After a competitive race, sitting GOP congressman David Schweikert has secured reelection in Arizona’s Congressional District 1 which covers the popular tourist region of Scottsdale.

The Associated Press called the race on the night of November 10. His Democratic challenger, former state lawmaker Dr. Amish Shah, gave a strong fight, keeping the election outcome uncertain until the final call.

Shah, who emerged from a crowded field of Democrats, focused his campaign on immigration, a key issue for many voters. He also emphasized liberal priorities, such as abortion rights and increased funding for public education.

The district’s demographics favored Republicans, with 39% of active voters registered as Republicans, 27% as Democrats, and 33% as unaffiliated, according to the Arizona Secretary of State.

Schweikert, who has served in Congress since 2011, was considered one of the most vulnerable incumbents, Politico reported. He defeated his Democratic opponent in 2022 by less than a percentage point. This year, Schweikert maintained a low profile, opting out of televised debates with Shah and distancing himself from former Trump’s campaign.