Meet Ashwin Ramaswami: A New Voice in Georgia Politics
Ashwin Ramaswami, a rising Democrat candidate for a Georgia State Senate seat, hails from a prosperous region of the Atlanta suburbs that has been significantly shaped by the technology sector and an influx of Indian American immigrants, including his own parents. This area boasts a notably higher percentage of adults with bachelor’s degrees compared to the national average, underscoring its educational attainment.
At just 25 years old, Mr. Ramaswami embodies the ambitions of a new generation, holding a computer science degree from Stanford University and a law degree from Georgetown University. His political journey took a decisive turn while he was still in law school when he discovered that the state senator representing his hometown of Johns Creek was among the 18 individuals indicted alongside former President Donald J. Trump for allegedly attempting to unlawfully interfere with the results of the 2020 election in Georgia. This revelation ignited his passion for public service and propelled him to run for office.
Today, Mr. Ramaswami’s bold challenge to the Republican incumbent, Shawn Still—a 52-year-old swimming pool contractor—may appear to be an uphill battle in Senate District 48, a district designed to favor Republican candidates. However, his campaign serves as a litmus test for the Democratic Party’s assertion that anyone involved in efforts to overturn the 2020 election results is unfit to hold public office. Additionally, this race will provide insight into the political engagement and influence of the expanding Indian American community in the densely populated suburbs north of Atlanta.
In recent weeks, Mr. Ramaswami has been actively canvassing the neighborhoods, moving from one subdivision to another, knocking on doors, and passionately articulating his belief that Mr. Still should no longer serve in government. Mr. Still was part of a contingent of Georgia Republicans who falsely declared that Mr. Trump had won the state, asserting themselves as “duly elected and qualified” electors on his behalf. The stakes are high as Mr. Ramaswami seeks to rally support and reshape the political landscape in his community.
