Rahul Garabadu, a second-generation Odia settled in the US, is all set to contest the Georgia State Senate District 7 election to be held later this year. He speaks to Arunika Mohapatra about his plans for the immigrant communityWhat made you decide to contest the election?I am running for the state Senate because District 7 requires a fighter who will stand up for our community’s values. As son of immigrants, I’ve dedicated my career to civil rights, from suing the state for fair electoral maps to holding authorities accountable for dangerous jail conditions. I’m running to tackle the rising cost of living, protect our immigrant communities, and ensure every Georgian has access to affordable healthcare.If elected, I would be the first Odia and first Indian-American to serve in Georgia State Senate. How do you intend to stand for immigrants?As son of immigrants, I know first-hand that our immigrant communities are the backbone of Georgia’s strength. In the state Senate, I will be a tireless civil rights champion against any govt overreach that threatens our communities. My approach is built on my record as a civil rights attorney. I have already proven that I am not afraid to take on powerful interests. In the legislature, I will fight to ensure that state and local resources are not weaponized to wreak havoc upon our families. What problems do immigrants face in the US? How you have helped them in the past?The Trump administration’s recent focus on mass deportations has created an atmosphere of fear that has torn families apart and destabilised our local workforce. Here in Georgia, these aggressive raids have not made us safer. Immigrants are the backbone of our economy — from our agricultural heartlands to our booming tech hubs. They are our entrepreneurs, essential workers, and taxpayers who revitalise our communities and embody the very best of the American Dream. My entire career as a civil rights lawyer has been about representing the many against the powerful few. I would continue that commitment as a member of the Georgia State Senate. How do you view Trump’s policy towards India?As a candidate for the Georgia State Senate, my perspective on international relations is always filtered through how those policies impact the families and the economy of our district. Georgia, and Senate District 7, is home to a vibrant South Asian community. Policies that prioritise mass deportation or sudden visa suspensions for dozens of countries directly harm our communities here. When the administration creates a climate of uncertainty for our immigrant communities, it hurts us all.
