U.S. Congress race sees Krystle Kaul emerge as the sole Sikh candidate, vying for a seat and representing her community

June 7 :
Only one Sikh contender, Krystle Kaul of Virginia's 10th congressional district, is still vying for a seat in the United States Congress. This follows the defeat of another Sikh contender, Ravinder Bhalla, for mayor of Hoboken, New Jersey, by incumbent Rob Menendez in the 8th Congressional District.

Above all else, I am a devout Punjabi Sikh woman; secondarily, I am an expert on national security and owner of a small business. This is a 44% minority and 16% Asian American district in Virginia, so I know voters there agree that we need to elect more diverse leaders," Kaul stated. "The Sikh concept of 'Oneness,' which I grew up with in a strong Sikh community, inspired me to enter public service at a young age," Kaul said, alluding to her Sikh heritage.

By being the first Sikh to serve in Congress, Kaul will go down in history books if elected. Using her platform, Kaul plans to denounce Sikh bigotry, attacks on gurdwaras, and international persecution of Sikh Americans, according to her statement. In the run-up to the June 18th democratic primary, the Loudoun resident, who is also an educator, small business owner, and former DOD director, has been able to reach out to voters thanks to successful fundraising in her area.