Dr.Patel: CA Gets New Indian American State Assembly Member

India-West News Desk

SACRAMENTO, CA – Democrat Dr. Darshana R. Patel officially took the oath of office as the newly elected State Assemblymember for California’s 76th Assembly District. The district encompasses a diverse array of communities, including Escondido, San Marcos, and parts of San Diego, as well as unincorporated areas such as Rancho Santa Fe, Lake San Marcos, and Harmony Grove.

“I am deeply honored to represent the 76th District in the State Assembly and eager to get to work for the people I serve,” Patel said. “I take this responsibility very seriously and am determined to deliver results for the residents who placed their trust in me.”

Patel declared victory in the competitive race after maintaining a decisive lead over Republican Kristie Bruce-Lane. She captured 53% of the vote, a seven-point margin, with Bruce-Lane trailing by nearly 14,000 votes. Despite the district’s increasing Republican influence following a 2021 redistricting, Patel outpaced Bruce-Lane in fundraising and voter support.

The campaign, marked by contentious exchanges, saw Bruce-Lane criticize Patel’s leadership on the Poway Unified School Board and accuse her of aligning with “radical” ideologies. Patel countered by highlighting Bruce-Lane’s controversial stances on abortion and gun control and her past lawsuits against families. Ultimately, Patel’s focus on community issues and her leadership record resonated with voters.

Patel’s personal journey is one of resilience and achievement. The daughter of Indian immigrants, she faced the loss of her mother at age 14—a tragedy that inspired her to pursue a career in medical research. Patel earned a B.A. in Biochemistry from Occidental College and a Ph.D. in Biophysics from UC Irvine before launching a successful career in biotechnology. Transitioning to community leadership, she served as School Board President for the Poway Unified School District and held roles on the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs, advocating for inclusivity and opportunity.

In the Assembly, Patel plans to prioritize public safety, reproductive freedom, enhanced education funding, expanded healthcare access, and solutions to homelessness. “As a mother and community leader, I am committed to making our communities safer, stronger, and more affordable for future generations,” she said.

Patel’s election marks a significant victory for Democrats in a district once considered a Republican stronghold.

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