Rishi Kumar, a Democrat, is running for election to the U.S. House as a representative of California’s 16th Congressional District. His race in 2022 marked the best performance by a challenger in the three decades that the incumbent, Anna Eshoo, has been in office, and will be running again in the 2024 election. Eshoo will be retiring after this term. He is a former tech executive and has served on the Saratoga City Council as well as on the Executive Board and Delegate to the California Democratic Party.
How has your experience on the Saratoga City Council helped you grow and become the candidate that you are today?
I found my calling as an activist, but as a council member, I challenged the system and status quo, unafraid to be the dissenting vote on burning issues that went against the people, and focused my energy on the tough community challenges.
You have sworn to never take PAC (Political Action Committee) money — how do you hope to do that?
The influence of large corporations and lobbyists has, unfortunately, overshadowed the voices of everyday Americans in our political discourse. Elected leaders should prioritize the well-being of their constituents over significant financial contributions. I’m committed to working towards overturning the Citizens United decision and ensuring that American governance truly serves the American people. While serving on the city council, I’ve consistently turned down money from land developers. This decision allows me to address community challenges without any external biases.
Why do you believe term limits should be implemented?
We need energetic, visionary leaders and that is why I asked Senator Feinstein to make way for fresh blood back in 2020.
Our California State Legislature provides reasonable term limits in both houses that allow for a representative to gain experience over time but not become stagnant. We should do the same in the United States Congress. Term limits will stop corruption by ensuring political turnover. It will bring new energy and new leadership to Washington interested and invested to get things done.
What is your stance on the Israel-Gaza war?
Firstly, I have a clear anti-war policy — it is time to build a world that will help nationals thrive via education and economy. I support peaceful and direct negotiations based on aspirations for national sovereignty. Negotiations — not through terror and violence. I recognize and accept Israel’s right to exist and Jews’ inalienable right to live in peace. I support Israel’s military superiority in the Middle East to counter the threats of totalitarian regimes. I support efforts for Palestinian leaders to build sovereignty. Israel must recognize the national aspirations of the Palestinian people.