Amish Shah Triumphs in Phoenix Area Democratic Primary
Indian American and former Arizona state Representative Amish Shah has emerged victorious in the Democratic primary for Arizona’s 1st Congressional District. This district encompasses parts of northeastern Phoenix and three affluent suburbs. Shah’s primary win paves the way for a highly contested election in November, where he will face off against seven-term incumbent Republican David Schweikert.
Shah, who entered the Democratic Primary to represent Arizona’s 24th Legislative District in 2018, had to overcome several contenders, including ex-news anchor Marlene Galán-Wood, former state party chair Andrei Cherny, former regional American Red Cross CEO Kurt Kroemer, orthodontist Andrew Horne, and investment banker Conor O’Callaghan. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Shah’s parents, who immigrated from India in the 1960s, were engineering students. His father practices Jainism, while his mother is Hindu.
Shah, a medical doctor with a Master of Public Health, previously served in the Arizona Legislature and founded the Arizona Vegetarian Food Festival, a philanthropic endeavor to promote healthy eating and eliminate preventable diseases. Now in its seventh year, the festival attracts thousands of visitors annually. As Shah prepares for the November election, he aims to represent a district that includes north Phoenix, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, and Paradise Valley. His opponent, David Schweikert, has had a long political career but faces ethical controversies, including significant fines for campaign finance violations.
Shah’s victory in the primary underscores the growing political involvement of Indian Americans in U.S. politics, especially in diverse states like Arizona. The district’s importance was highlighted by President Joe Biden’s victory there in 2020. Voters will soon decide whether to continue with Schweikert’s seasoned but troubled leadership or opt for Shah’s fresh perspective and commitment to public health and ethical governance.
