Indian American physician Surya Dhakar is running for the Virginia House of Delegates District 56. A Republican candidate, Dhakar is vying for the seat currently held by Republican Peter Farrell, who is not seeking re-election. Dhakar has put his name in the pool of candidates looking to fill the seat being vacated by Republican Peter Farrell, who is not seeking re-election.
Dhakar has had a dental practice in Henrico County for more than 20 years, and has served on a number of state and county advisory boards, including the Virginia Board of Dentistry from 2011 to 2015. He lives in Henrico County with his wife, where they raised their two children, who now have children of their own. “We want our children and grandchildren to have the same freedom and opportunity we’ve cherished (since emigrating to Henrico County),” Dhakar said on his campaign page. “As your delegate, I will continue that service and I promise to be honest, devoted and accessible to you,” he said.
If elected, Dhakar promises to advance and protect a fiscally responsible conservative agenda of lower taxes and end wasteful spending; exceptional public schools that deliver an excellent education; healthcare that functions for families at lower costs; and to restore the sense of community.
A past and present member of several state and county advisory boards, Dhakar is one of the seven contestants. He served on the Viriginia Board of Dentistry from 2011 to 2015; and served as president of the Indian Association of Virginia, twice. Dhakar’s poll promises include lower taxes, improved public schools and lower costs of healthcare services.
Among the other GOP candidates are John McGuire, Graven Craig, George Goodwin and Matt Pinsker. The 56th District includes Louisa County, portions of Goochland, Henrico and Spotsylvania counties. The area is heavily Republican; so much so that the Democrats did not run for this seat since 2009. This year, however, two Democrats are in the fray. From January till March, the Indian American physician raised more than $58,000; nearly equal to all others, combined. The district has been held uncontested by Republicans since 2009. The primary election is scheduled for June 13. Should Dhakar advance, the general election is slated for Nov. 7.