P.P. Cherian
RICHMOND (Virginia): Ghazala Hashmi has made history in American politics with her election as the next Lieutenant Governor of Virginia. Hashmi has achieved the feat of becoming the first Muslim woman, the first Indian-American, and the first South Asian-American to be elected to a state-level position not only in Virginia but also across the United States.
Facing a tough competition against Republican candidate John Reid, Hashmi secured her victory with the support of voters in the final stages.
Born in Hyderabad, Hashmi immigrated to the United States at a young age. After serving in the education sector for three decades, she entered politics by being elected to the Virginia Senate in 2019.
Hashmi was a strong voice for social justice, education, environmental protection, voting rights, and health.
"This is a moment for all Virginians who dream of a more hopeful, inclusive, and compassionate politics," Hashmi said after her victory.