Again a proud moment for India and this time a women gave us this chance. In the state of Maryland, which is close to the US capital, Aruna Miller won the contest for lieutenant governor on November 8, writing history as the first Indian-American politician to do so.
Former Maryland House delegate Miller, 58, competed for lieutenant governor along with Wes Moore, the next Democratic governor.
When the Governor is absent or unable to serve, the Lieutenant Governor fills in as the state’s second-highest elected official. In the event of the Governor’s demise, resignation, or removal from office, the Lieutenant Governor also assumes the role of Governor.
Had a support of president and vice president
On November 8 night, shortly after the polls closed, Moore and Miller were proclaimed victorious over their Republican rivals. Moore and Miller had been supported by both Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden during their campaigns.
Miller overcame last-minute fierce resistance from her distracters who accused her of recruiting Hindu nationalists, a charge she rejected, to win the campaign for lieutenant governor in Maryland.
In Maryland, her appeal to Indian-Americans is widespread and partisan. Leading Trump and Republican backers spoke out in favour of her and raised money.
Among them, Jasdip Singh Jassee is well-known.
Proved what a small state can do
“Maryland, tonight you showed the nation what a small but mighty state can do when democracy is on the ballot. You chose unity over division, expanding rights over restricting rights, and hope over fear. You chose Wes Moore and me to be your next Governor and Lieutenant Governor,” Miller said in her victory speech.
Miller was born in Andhra Pradesh before migrating to the US along with her parents.
“Ever since I came to this country in 1972, I’ve never stopped being excited for the promise of America. I will never stop fighting to make sure that promise is available to everyone. And this promise begins with a commitment to deliver a
Maryland where we leave no one behind,” she said.
