CAPAC Elects New Leadership for the 119th Congress, Highlighting Diversity and Representation

The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) has announced its leadership team for the 119th Congress, with key roles assigned to representatives emphasizing the growing influence and diversity of South Asian Americans in U.S. politics. Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA), was elected as Whip, while Representative-elect Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA) was named Freshman Representative. These appointments underscore the caucus’ commitment to representing a broad spectrum of Asian American voices.

Representative Ami Bera, the longest-serving Indian American in Congress, has been a consistent advocate for healthcare reform and international diplomacy throughout his tenure. In his new role as Whip, Bera will take on a central responsibility in coordinating legislative strategies and promoting unity within CAPAC. Expressing his enthusiasm for the position, Bera stated, “Deeply honored to serve as Whip for the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus in the next Congress! I look forward to working with this new leadership team to advance CAPAC’s vital mission.”

Suhas Subramanyam, who recently achieved a historic milestone as the first Indian American to represent Virginia in Congress, joins the CAPAC leadership with a vision for progress. His commitment to tackling pressing issues, such as climate change and technological innovation, will add a fresh perspective to the caucus. “It is an honor to serve in CAPAC’s leadership,” Subramanyam said. “As Freshman Representative, I look forward to working with my colleagues to uplift the voices of Asian American communities and tackle pressing challenges.”

The leadership of CAPAC for the 119th Congress will be headed by Representative Grace Meng (D-NY), who was elected Chair. Meng, a prominent advocate for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities, has dedicated her congressional career to addressing critical issues impacting these groups. “It is an honor to serve as Chair of CAPAC,” Meng said. “Throughout my time in Congress, I have championed the Asian American community, tackling issues like combating hate, reducing healthcare costs, and supporting small businesses.”

Meng’s leadership follows that of outgoing Chair Judy Chu, and she has pledged to build upon the caucus’ achievements by intensifying advocacy efforts. Her focus includes combating the surge in anti-Asian hate crimes, promoting economic equity, and ensuring federal policies address the unique challenges faced by AANHPI communities. “CAPAC was created to ensure the voices of AANHPI communities are not only heard but strongly represented at the federal level,” Meng explained. “I look forward to working with our diverse members to fight for policies that empower our communities.”

Representative Jill Tokuda (D-HI) will serve as Second Vice-Chair, adding to the diverse leadership that reflects CAPAC’s mission to amplify the voices of all AANHPI individuals. The caucus’ leadership team is determined to uphold CAPAC’s founding purpose of advocating for policies that address the needs and concerns of these communities.

As CAPAC prepares for the 119th Congress, the new leadership team is poised to champion transformative initiatives. Their collective efforts aim to address a range of issues, from combating hate and ensuring economic justice to fostering opportunities for small businesses and supporting climate resilience. The caucus’ work promises to amplify the voices of AANHPI communities while striving for inclusivity and equity on a national scale.