By Assunta Ng
Mark Chow
Elections are an opportunity for us to speak our mind. Voters certainly spoke on the Nov. 4 election in Washington state.
It is a big win for Asian Americans especially Indian Americans. Pramila Jayapal will be the first Indian American State Senator. As the first Indian American judge in our state, Judge Ketu Shah is probably keeping his seat with over 52 percent of the votes, as Bellevue District Court judge.
“I am hopeful with early returns,” said Judge Shah. “I appreciate all the support from my family, friends, and community. I am surprised the race is this close given my opponent (Sarah Hayne) was admonished for unfair campaign practices and her campaign was condemned by the Asian Bar Association of Washington.”
Other Asian judges have done equally well. Washington state Supreme Court Justice Mary Yu ran unopposed. Her support has scared off potential challengers. This is a tribute to her strong qualifications and a broad support base. Judge Kimi Kondo and Mark Chow were challenged, but they were not difficult wins and they had big leads over their opponents.
I credit our voters; they are smarter than you think. They are informed voters, and are not influenced by unfair and racist approaches in campaigns.
Congratulations are well deserved. (end)