White House Alum, Jay Vaingankar, 27, Announces Run For Congress

Photo: Linkedin

India-West Staff Reporter

WEST WINDSOR, NJ – Jay Vaingankar, a 27-year-old former White House official, has launched a bid for New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District, entering a crowded Democratic field aiming to succeed retiring Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman. With the district rated safely Democratic, the party’s June 2, 2026, primary will likely determine the next representative.

Vaingankar served in the Biden administration as a Special Advisor at the Department of Energy. His campaign says he would be the state’s first Gen Z and first South Asian member of Congress if elected.

In a December 8 announcement, Vaingankar praised Watson Coleman’s legacy and said he hopes to continue her progressive record. He said he wants to bring new energy to confronting the Trump administration and addressing rising costs that are burdening New Jersey families.

A Mercer County native, Vaingankar worked on what his campaign calls the nation’s largest climate investment, including major clean energy tax credits for New Jersey. After leaving government, he returned home to work in solar energy with a focus on reducing utility bills and easing cost of living pressures.

Vaingankar is a graduate of the Wharton School, where he studied Business Economics and Public Policy. He also holds a degree in International Studies from the University of Pennsylvania.